Figure Representing a Priest Wearing Pendants

Origin: Nok Culture, Nigeria
Composition: terracotta
Age: 2nd century B.C.

The Figure of a Priest Wearing Pendants is among the most important works of Nok sculpture that is not currently in a major museum. This figure deviates from the classic Nok archetypes in many significant ways. First of all, this figure wears more small "pendants" than any single figure that has been published or exhibited (the small pendant figures seem to have been reserved for only the most important or spiritual figures). The only piece that wears comparably as many pendants as this figure is currently on display in the Musée du Quai Branly in Paris.

Secondly, the articulation of the long, thin beard and long, flowing locks of hair is practically unique among Nok sculpture, which typically displays tight braids, molded styles, and intentionally symmetrical coiffures. Another anomaly is the seeming portrayal of this piece wearing a cloak (not, like most Noks, being portrayed nude, adorned with carnelian pearls), which seems to be attached with a belt, and flows to the ground, covering the legs and feet.

Finally, the completeness and lack of restoration make this piece stand alone—its surface still wears much of its original fine slip, and the level of detail still portrayed is exceptional. There simply are not many other works from the Nok culture that can even be compared to this piece.

A small figurative pendant (previously in the SUJARO collection) that seems to have been designed so that it could actually be worn can be seen here. The seven-figure altarpiece in the Musée du Quai Branly, depicted wearing numerous pendants, can be seen here.

This piece was thermoluminescence tested by Alliance Science Art (Paris), and found to be authentic, having been fired (created) between 366 B.C. and 64 A.D.

Please contact us to inquire about this piece at (415) 362-6601 or info@sujaro.com.