Description:

Africa, Nigeria, ca. 500 BCE to 200 CE. An expressive terracotta sculptural head from the Nok culture of central Nigeria, known for its ancient and highly stylized ceramic figures. This fragmentary piece depicts a human face with large, deeply incised eyes, flared nostrils, and a prominent, projecting mouth feature resembling an avian beak — a hallmark of certain Nok stylistic traditions. The head is topped with a delineated coiffure or headband and rests on a custom mount. The Nok civilization is one of sub-Saharan Africa’s earliest known complex societies, and its terracotta sculptures are among the continent's oldest surviving artistic traditions. Pieces such as this are believed to have served ritual or ceremonial functions, possibly representing ancestors, dignitaries, or spiritual figures. Size: 2.75" W x 5" H (7 cm x 12.7 cm); 6.5" H (16.5 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA

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#196114

  • Condition: Repairs to crown of head. Old chip on right edge of beard, chip on both sides of mouth. Old cracking on right side of neck. Rough edge at base of neck.

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August 22, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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