Nok Dignitary face, Nigeria - Lot 252

Nok Dignitary face, Nigeria Terracotta H. 23 cm Missing back of headdress, neck Thermoluminescence test QED1015/BA-0601 Provenance: Private collection, Belgium The refinement and power of Nok sculptural figuration can be seen in the features of this male face, probably representing a dignitary. A sublime artistic testimony to an ephemeral civilization that appeared in Nigeria 1,000 BC and mysteriously disappeared. A timeless transmitter of history, this work with its fine, powerful features and elongated face bears witness to the technical mastery of a civilization that was very mature in its time. Her elaborate hairstyle is composed of round buns of equal size. This classically sculpted Nok face exudes an impression of strength, with features that are powerfully intensified and accentuated: a protuberant, luscious mouth, a nose with flattened nostrils and two imposing moustaches. The circular, hollowed-out eyes, almost positioned at the sides of the face, give his gaze a striking omnipresence, the field of vision being thus enlarged, from the side the figure seems to see, look and watch. The intensity of this gaze is enhanced by a finely defined rim, magnified by dotted eyebrows. The remarkably meticulous headdress, testifying to the high rank of the figure depicted, is announced by a crown in the form of a "diadem" at the top of his forehead, stretching delicately over the skull in a frieze of juxtaposed circles, covering the whole, with beautiful braids appearing laterally. This face exudes strength of character. Expert : Aurore KRIER-MARIANI - +33 (0)6 17 18 11 36