A finely cast bronze/brass pendant in the lost-wax casting tradition of West African metalworkers, most consistent with the Baule or Senufo casting traditions of Côte d'Ivoire (with related conventions also found among neighboring Akan and Sahelian bronze-casting peoples).
The rectangular plaque is dominated by a pair of facing ram's heads rendered in high relief with coiled, textured horns — a motif widely associated with strength, virility, and status in West African symbolic vocabulary. The surface is bordered with fine cast detailing: twisted rope-pattern edging, wavy line registers, and clusters of raised dots, all framing the central field. The lower edge terminates in a serrated, fringe-like border, and a looped suspension ring at the top confirms its use as a pendant, worn as a pectoral ornament by a chief, dignitary, or person of rank.
Details:
- Dimensions: 36 x 14 cm
- Material: Cast bronze/brass (lost-wax casting)
- Style: West African bronze-casting tradition (Baule/Senufo region, Côte d'Ivoire), ram's-head motif
- Function: Pectoral pendant / prestige ornament, worn as an insignia of status
- Condition: Natural aged patina throughout
- Attribution note: Style and iconography consistent with West African cast-bronze regalia; precise ethnic attribution, workshop, and age not certified
A finely detailed example of West African lost-wax bronze casting, combining animal symbolism with the region's rich metalworking heritage.