Human face of copper alloy, semi-circular portion above forehead lattice-like, hollow designs bordered by a wide solid band. Ears at edge of each side at forehead level. Six tear drop shaped elements across forehead. Eyes oval-shaped with slightly protruding pupils at center. Eyes rimmed with slightly raised ridge, with lightly incised horizontal lines. Nose long with pronounced nostrils. Heart shaped mouth with clearly delineated upper and lower lips. Rounded chin. Bottom of head from eye level to chin rimmed with a wide decorative band. Two loops on upper and lower inside rim. Reverse unornamented.
Prior to 1987, provenance not yet documented; by 1939, reportedly acquired by Harry Beasley; before 1987, reportedly acquired by John Wise, New York; June 29, 1987, Sotheby's, London, lot 184; May 10, 1988, Sotheby's, New York, lot 141; before 1993, Dorothy Robbins, New York; 1993, gift of Dorothy Robbins to the Brooklyn Museum.
Dayton Art Institute, Dayton, OH, January 18, 2003 - January 18, 2006. Dayton Art Institute, Dayton, OH, "Looking Forward, Looking Black," July 13 - September 8, 2002. "Tradition and Transition: African Art from the Brooklyn Museum of Art." Williams College of Art, Williamstown MA. XX - Jan. 2000.