Container of carved coconut with surface decoration including a figure in ceremonial coral beadwork with raised swords: West Africa, Nigeria, Edo State, Benin
WEST AFRICA. LOWER NIGERIA. BENIN. WOODWORK. POWDER FLASK, formed of an immature coconut: exterior carved in high relief as follows: at the base a circular boss from which radiates four opposed leaves, one pair having reined surfaces, between four radiating lines; above an oba figure clad in coral-work holding an executioner's sword in one hand, in the other a short bidental sword or stave; opposite him, a figure holding up a sunshade and leaning upon a staff, clad ...