What material is the Ife head sculpture primarily made from?

The Ife head sculpture is primarily made from brass. This type of sculpture, which originates from the ancient Yoruba city of Ife in Nigeria, is renowned for its intricate and detailed representations of human heads, believed to depict royalty and ancestors. The use of brass in the creation of these sculptures not only adds a level of durability but also allows for fine detailing, capturing the refined features and expressions that are characteristic of Ife art.

Brass was a significant material in many African cultures, often used in a variety of ceremonial and artistic contexts. The craftsmanship involved in creating these brass heads reflects the advanced metalworking skills of the Ife people and their deep cultural significance, as the heads serve as both artistic and spiritual symbols.

In contrast, while wood, clay, and marble are important materials in the history of sculpture, they do not apply to the specific context of the Ife head sculptures, which distinctly utilize brass to achieve their unique aesthetic and cultural expression.