Akan Terracotta Commemorative memorial portrait Head 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

Provided with custom base

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.