Final answer:
The Crowned Head of a Queen from Ife is made of bronze and placed on an altar to honor the king. It showcases the craftsmanship and cultural significance of such royal artifacts in West African societies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Crowned Head of a Queen from Ife, Nigeria, is made of bronze and serves a specific ceremonial purpose. The bronze casting represents an idealized likeness of the Oba, or king, often portrayed as he appeared in his youth. This head would historically be placed on an altar made to honor the king, demonstrating the high level of craftsmanship and the deep cultural significance that these objects held. Moreover, bronze was a material associated with royal and ceremonial artifacts in many West African cultures, prominently featuring in the artistic traditions of places like Benin and Ife. The detailed cap, made to resemble valuable coral beads, signifies the use of imported and prestigious materials, underscoring the wealth and power of the ruler.
Historians have deduced that the terracotta heads were likely predecessors to these bronze heads, which became more prestigious over time. These bronze heads were not direct portraits but stylized representations that served a symbolic function within a broader spiritual and political context. They were not only objects of artistry but also embodiments of royal authority, continuity, and the collective memory of a people.