Ife Art

Art comes from archaeological sites found in western Nigeria.
Consists of objects made from terracotta, bronze, and stone.
Objects date 1000-500 B.P (1000 and 1500 A.D).
Believed to be created for the ruling elite.
Idealized naturalism.
Full length figures and busts are common.
Figures are sometimes heavily beaded.

Stone Carving


Idena (gatekeeper). Has iron nails in its coiffure and elaborately tied sash.	Staff of Oranmiyan. 18 feet in height studded with spiral-headed nails.

Terracottas


Child of Obatala (creation divinity). The sculpture probably depicts a ritual specialist indicated by the bead on his forehead and the skull pendant.	Probable image of a queen with an elaborately beaded headdress.	Sculpture of possible queen with facial striations and elaborate head gear. From 1000-700 B.P (1000-1300 A.D).

Bronzes

What features distinguish these figures as royalty?

Can you identify the royal regalia and their significance?

Consider why rulers are depicted in the prime of life.

Bronze (Leaded brass) sculpture of Oni (ruler)
probably from 800-500 B.P (1300-1500)

Bronze (Leaded brass) bust of Ife ruler from 900-500 B.P. (1100-1500 A.D). Mustache and beard or beaded veil may have been attached to the holes around the mouth, chin and jaw.

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This website was created and modified by Cynthia Becker, Bolaji Campbell and Janine Sytsma with Professor Henry Drewal. It was last modified August 31st, 2007.
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