Benin Bronze Leopard Aquamanile Antique African Vessel

An Important Early Benin Bronze Leopard Figure Aquamanile Vessel
Antique African Art Tribal Sculpture Ritual Container Old Benin Kingdom, Nigeria

Collected from the: Old Benin Kingdom in what is now known as Nigeria, West Africa
Material: Bronze, old lost wax casting of copper/tin alloy
Estimated Period: Late 16th to early 17th century
Dimensions: 17.5" height, 9.5" width, 12" depth; weight is 21.70 pounds
Condition: Exceptional. Held in private collection, the condition of this exquisitely thin-walled, finely detailed leopard remains unchanged from the time of it's original late 1940's field acquisition. Significant signs of age, anticipated minute flaws, known as "blow holes", in nt to the early casting process; tool signatures, refined metal content, iconography and surface condition appear appropriate for the period. Virtually smooth (non-granular) surface condition produced only from the utmost care of a highly skilled peak period caster applying the first layer of slip to the wax mold in the initial steps of the technique. Gorgeous deep chocolate patina, displays skin oil residue at chest and shoulders (exactly w human hands would brace for pouring) with liberal brassy highlights. Make special note of the tail handle, hinged hole at top of head and the delicately incised stippling over every square inch of this leopard's surface - a superior, museum quality specimen!

Please to fully appreciate this important old piece!