Bronze Yoruba royal couple, Nigeria

The Kingdom of Ife, located in present-day southwest Nigeria, is one of the oldest and most influential civilizations in West Africa. Ifé is particularly renowned for its bronze and terracotta sculptures, made with remarkable precision and detail. These works are often associated with religious rituals and royal representations. The royal couple featured here exemplify the artistic excellence and symbolic depth of Ife art, which has influence on other African cultures, including the Kingdom of Benin (Edo). This bronze royal couple is a majestic and symbolic representation of Edo-Ife royalty. It illustrates not only the technical excellence of the artisans of this period, but also the symbolic depth of their art. These sculptures are precious testaments to Yoruba history and culture, highlighting the complexity and richness of their royal traditions. An exceptional piece of museum quality. Presumed age: mid-20th centuryDimensions: height 56cm, width 18cm, depth 18cmEthnic group: Yoruba, NigeriaMaterial: bronze