Benin Kingdom — Nigeria
Mid-19th century
Bronze
Height: 6¾ in (17.1 cm)
Provenance: Michael Graham Stewart, London
Equestrian figures occupy a distinct place within Benin Kingdom royal imagery, where the horse — costly and uncommon in the region — was closely associated with status, military authority, and hierarchical power. Figures of this type have been interpreted variously as royal, military, or commemorative subjects, reflecting the range of contexts in which mounted imagery carried meaning within the visual language of the Benin court. The rider's upright posture and dress suggest a figure of elevated standing within that register.
The casting shows simplified modeling with a surface darkened through age and handling, consistent with the production period and long subsequent use. The piece was formerly in the collection of Michael Graham Stewart, London.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Benin Kingdom — Nigeria
Mid-19th century
Bronze
Height: 6¾ in (17.1 cm)
Provenance: Michael Graham Stewart, London
Equestrian figures occupy a distinct place within Benin Kingdom royal imagery, where the horse — costly and uncommon in the region — was closely associated with status, military authority, and hierarchical power. Figures of this type have been interpreted variously as royal, military, or commemorative subjects, reflecting the range of contexts in which mounted imagery carried meaning within the visual language of the Benin court. The rider's upright posture and dress suggest a figure of elevated standing within that register.
The casting shows simplified modeling with a surface darkened through age and handling, consistent with the production period and long subsequent use. The piece was formerly in the collection of Michael Graham Stewart, London.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
