This is 19th century Benin Bronze Bracelet, used for dowries and marriage gifts among the Yoruba people of Nigeria. Many of these were taken be British soldiers from the Kingdom of Benin during the colonial period and have found their way into the hands of private collectors.
This particular example features whorls and intricate knotwork, and a pyramidal central knob, as well as two smaller finial knobs that give it balance. It's large size and heft, its attractive green outward patina and smooth copper interior where the bracelet would meet skin are all signs of excellent craftsmanship, that bespeaks the giver wanting his bride to feel like royalty.
These regularly sell for around $200 on the open market.
This extraordinary example, without breaks and with a detail and symmetry that many lesser examples lack, should be prized by the collector with an exacting eye.
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