Brass head
From: Benin, Nigeria
Date: 18th century AD
This head was used by the Benin kings when they worshipped the
god Osun. Osun's power is linked to magical forest plants. The head
has a crown of birds, for protection and to help see into the
future. The stone axes on the forehead show the power of
lightning.
Can you see the snakes coming out of the eyes and nose? Snakes
are thought to be Osun's warriors. People who have magic powers are
said to spit out snakes when setting out to destroy their
enemies.