Pair of leopards. Benin, 20th century. Cast bronze. Sizes:... Lot 18

Pair of leopards. Benin, 20th century. Cast bronze. Sizes: 37,5 x 54 x 11,5 cm and 32,5 x 32,5 x 9,5 cm. Pair of leopards made entirely in cast bronze. Benin bronzes had a variety of functions in Beninese ritual and courtly life. Although they are more naturalistic pieces than the vast majority of African totems, they are governed by a marked staticism and hieratic sense, as can be seen in the pair of leopards on offer here.