Big NOK terra cotta head - Nigeria

Discover the unique beauty of the Nok culture (ca. 1500 BCE – 500 CE), one of the oldest and most influential civilizations of West Africa. This rare Nok terracotta head is an impressive example of early African tribal art, originating from present-day Nigeria.

The handmade sculpture showcases the characteristic style of Nok figures: large eyes, a broad nose, an expressive mouth, and a carefully stylized hairstyle. The grainy texture of the clay used and the fine details reflect the craftsmanship and spiritual significance these objects already held centuries ago.

The exact function of these heads is not fully known. They may have served as ritual objects, grave offerings, or symbols of ancestor veneration. Today, Nok terracottas are considered among the most important discoveries in African art history and are collected worldwide as valuable cultural artifacts.

This is a beautiful example, made for the market but with the proper coarse, grainy clay containing quartz inclusions, just like authentic pieces that cost a fortune and may not be traded without CITES documentation. They are also protected cultural heritage.

Features

• Height: 24 cm

• Width: 16 cm

• Weight: 4330 grams

• Origin: Nigeria

• Date: Unknown

• Provenance: Acquired in situ by Peter Beaujean

This piece is ideal for collectors and lovers of tribal sculptures or anyone who wishes to enrich their interior with a beautiful art object, even though it is trade art.