Edo Lidded Ceremonial Vessel with Figures, on Three Legs

For centuries in Benin City, a guild of casters has worked brass in the service of the Oba. Vessels like this follow that court tradition.

This lidded bronze was made by the Edo peoples in the 20th century. Nineteen inches tall, it rests on three legs ending in human feet. The tapering body is covered in finely chased geometric patterning between bands of interlace. At the front, a standing figure holding an offering is cast in high relief, flanked by ring handles. Atop the lid lies a recumbent animal, and a second small animal head sits at the rim. The brown surface carries a soft, mellow patina.

It stands on human feet. You may as well offer it a chair.