Artwork
Snake's Head. Benin.
Snake's Head. Benin. is a photographic photography by Walker Evans. It dates from 1935 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
The mouth is wide open, showing sharp teeth, and the top of the head has two small circles that look like eyes.
This is a black-and-white photo of a bronze sculpture shaped like a snake’s head. The mouth is wide open, showing sharp teeth, and the top of the head has two small circles that look like eyes. The surface has some carvings and patterns, especially around the jaw.
The photo was taken in 1935 as part of an art exhibit. The sculpture is from Benin, now part of Nigeria, and was likely part of a larger figure.
Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more objects like this.
Overview
A 1935 black-and-white photograph by Walker Evans captures a bronze snake's head sculpture from Benin, now in Nigeria.
Subject & Meaning
The sculpture depicts a snake's head with an open mouth, revealing sharp teeth, and features carved patterns on its surface. It was likely part of a larger figure.
Technique & Style
The bronze sculpture showcases intricate carvings, particularly around the jaw area, and has two small circular features resembling eyes.
History & Provenance
The photograph was taken as part of an art exhibit in 1935, documenting African art and artifacts.
Artist & collection
Artist
Walker Evans made stark black-and-white photos of carved wooden heads from Benin in 1935.
