Description
A fine Akan Terracotta Commemorative memorial portrait Head from Ghana.
Terracotta with red slip 8 1/2 x 7 inches, 21.5 x 18 cm,
Period 19th century or earlier..
Provence : jean Davenne London
Since the late sixteenth century, Akan potters created ceramic heads to commemorate deceased individuals of high status.
Family members placed the terracotta portraits of the deceased in a sacred area near the cemetery,
During funerary rites libations and food were offered to the ancestors.
