BENIN, NIGERIA
BRONZE, HEIGHT 44CM

This is a real master piece. The artist was able to give the figure a completely un-African stance, with the way the feet and legs are placed, and the action placement of the shortish arms. Portuguese traders have been regular visitors to Benin since the 1600’s. A statue of a Portuguese soldier similar to this one was displayed on top of the roof of the royal palace in the 17th century. 8 smaller soldiers are positioned around the sides of the base.