5th century BC-3rd century AD. A hollow-formed ceramic head with crested cap and lateral tassel. 432 grams, 14cm (5 1/2"). Property of a Salisbury, Wiltshire, UK collector; formerly in an important private London collection; formed in the 1970s and 1980s. The Nok culture appeared in northern Nigeria around 1000 BC and vanished in unknown circumstances around 300 AD in West Africa. It was one of the earliest West African cultures to produce sculpture. Little is known of the intended function of these pieces, but theories include the portrayal of ancestors, grave-markers and charms to prevent crop failure, infertility and illness. Some figures feature domed bases, suggesting use as finials or protomes. [No Reserve] Fine condition.