Beninese Equestrian Figure - Depiction of Oba on Horseback

A figure in a tall crown rides a horse, and he is not in a hurry.

This bronze equestrian figure depicting an Oba on horseback comes from Benin, West Africa, and is dated in the record to the late 19th or early 20th century. Benin’s brass and bronze casting is widely known for court art, and mounted rulers are a recurring subject. The rider wears a high headdress and sits sidelong with arms raised to the face. The horse has a bridled head and an arched neck, standing on a flat oval base. The metal is dark brown with golden highlights.

About 16 inches tall. A small court procession, comfortable on a bookshelf.