19th C. African Benin ex-Hollywood Star- Anthony Quinn -cast brass head depicting a member of the royal family w/ COA and Provenance Iyoba

From late Hollywood Star's Anthony Quinn's personal collection! Authentic 19th Century Grand (13 7/8 inches) Benin cast-brass head depicting a member of the royal family. Stunning and rare piece of Iyoba (Queen mother) displays Forward tilted peak of the headdress. The elaborate netlike surface represents coral beading that were traditionally worn by nobility. The visage is stylized but presents an idealized and youthful visage, likely the Iyoba during the prime of her life - and features ovoid eyelids and slitted pupils, incised linear markings that represent scarification on the brow, petite ears, and protruding lips. The Iyoba rank was given significant power in the 15th century when Idia, the mother of king Esigie, fought for her son's right to rule as Oba. Out of respect for her loyalty and strength, Iyobas rank second to the Oba himself and have the right to commission cast brass sculptures to place upon altars - a privilege that had been reserved for just the Oba. Size: 6.125" D