Bidspirit auction | Sokoto Terracotta Head

Sokoto Terracotta Head - Northern Nigeria, Sokoto culture, likely circa 500 BCE - 200 CE. An authentic terracotta head modeled with a rounded cranium, projecting nose, pierced eyes and nostrils, and a small smiling mouth above a triangular chin or beard element. Short incised marks above the eyes suggest brows or scarification, while pierced openings at the sides indicate the ears or former attachment points. The surface is coarse and granular, with reddish-brown firing tones, scattered mineral deposits, and areas of weathering. Mounted on a later black display stand. Size 5 1/4”” H, 7” H on Stand Ex-Tennessee Estate. Family collection of an esteemed diplomat and ambassador amassed during travel and work circa 1960-1990s in the medical field providing charitable advanced medical care throughout the African continent and internationally.