altar ram's head

Culture
Edo people
Culture
Benin Kingdom
Creation date
Collection
African
Materials
wood, coconut shell
Dimensions
H: 13 3/4 in.
Currently On View
Credit line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Harrison Eiteljorg
Accession number
1989.823
Gallery Label

Important male ancestors may be honored with wooden ram heads.  These heads are kept on altars where they provide a link between living family members and the deceased.  The ram is a common animal of sacrifice in Western Africa and is often associated with ancestors.

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