Powder flask, 17th / 18th century ·  Nigeria, Benin Kingdom, Edo · ID: 3048472

Description

wood, 3-pcs., animal skin, minor missing part (spout)

The artistically crafted vessel appears to be modelled on the curled body of a snake. It is composed of two halves, the intersection on the outside bordered by strips of animal skin. The spout and the cone-shaped “tail end” are worked separately and accurately fitted. The top is covered with incised ornamental decoration.