2 - Ornamental figure of an asen

Ornamental figure of an asen Wrought iron, with an antique brown patina and signs of age. Fon, Benin. 22 x 15.5 cm Seated, this figure has a slender torso framed by the curve of the arms, whose hands are joined in front of the body. His legs, spread wide apart and then bent in arcs, provide him with a stable, wide-based seat. Through the interplay of curves and negative space alone, the blacksmith has created a highly stylized figure with great economy of form. This sculpture adorned the top of an asen, a metal altar dedicated to ancestors. Families placed offerings and libations there to maintain a connection with their deceased loved ones and seek their protection. The figures, animals, and objects arranged on the tray evoked the activities, beliefs, or history of the person being honored. General Bibliography: André Blandin, “Fer noir” d’Afrique de l’Ouest, Marignane, André Blandin, 1992.