This impressive terracotta head is made by the Ashanti of the ancient Gold Coast (now Ghana). It consists of a thin, ringed neck on a slightly wider base, which supports an oversized, childish-looking head. The features are very small and are represented in bas-relief.
The Ashanti live in the central part of the country and are one of the most important groups from an artistic point of view. Their Akuaba dolls are one of the most recognizable shapes on the continent. Its creation is attributed to the women of the tribe.
Pieces like this are relatively rare, and were designed as funerary markers for important chieftains. They were placed next to their portraits in sacred places.
It is an exclusive piece, with unique decorations, whose balanced features suggest always positive qualities.
*All products are made by hand so there may be some variation in shape and size.
