Bidspirit auction | Monumental Cast Bronze Ritual Urn,

Monumental Cast Bronze Ritual Urn, Benin or Yoruba People, Nigeria, mid-20th century - Large and finely detailed cast bronze ritual urn depicting a seated male and female couple on the domed lid, each holding ritual implements and accompanied by animals and a child, a symbolic representation of fertility, guardianship, and lineage continuity. The ovoid body is elaborately decorated with geometric reliefs, raised beadwork, and frontal mask medallions, while the base is supported by four kneeling attendants, each rendered with expressive facial features and carrying the weight of the vessel on their backs. Executed in the traditional lost-wax (cire perdue) technique, this vessel exemplifies the narrative and textural complexity of Benin and Yoruba bronze artistry, long associated with ancestral veneration and royal court rituals. Deep brown and green patina with natural verdigris from age and oxidation. Approx. 41 in. H, 13 in. W, 13 in. D. Condition: Good overall with minor surface casting imperfections, small losses, and stable oxidation consistent with material and age.