Akan Terracotta Memorial Head (Mma or Nsodie)

Akan peoples, 18th–19th century, Hemang–Twifo Region, Ghana, West Africa

Magnificent and deeply evocative terracotta memorial head (mma or nsodie), attributed to the Hemang–Twifo region. This elegant example displays the hallmarks of classic Akan portraiture: a serene, meditative expression, beautifully oval face, broad forehead, finely arched brows flowing from the bridge of the nose, almond-shaped closed eyes, and a subtle, composed smile. Semi-circular ears rise neatly from the sides, while the carefully rendered multi-tiered coiffure signals high status and refined artistry. Subtle inclusions of quartz add a gentle radiance to the surface—an effect believed to echo the shimmering appearance of elites who ceremonially adorned themselves with shea butter mixed with gold dust.

Terracotta memorial heads were created exclusively after an individual’s death, both as commemorative portraits and as vessels through which the spirit of the deceased could be invoked. Among the Akan, important individuals and persons of rank were honored with such portrait heads, placed within a designated sacred funerary area of the cemetery (asensie, the “place of the pots”) outside the village. Offerings of food, water, and libations would be made there, as the spirits so honored were believed to support and guide the living during times of difficulty. The creation of these portraits was the domain of highly skilled elder women, entrusted with capturing the essence—though not a literal likeness—of the deceased in clay. The practice is known in the region from at least the 17th century and remains among the most revered sculptural traditions of the Akan world.

Good condition. Intact. Expected chips, nicks, abrasions, and softening of detail, all commensurate with age and use. Lovely patina. Size approx. 13,7cm x 9,5cm x 6,9cm.

Provenance: Danish private collection.

For a similar example see:

Memorial Head (Nsodie), The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number: 2015.790 (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/320598)

References and further reading:

The Arts of Ghana, Herbert M. Cole & Doran H. Ross, Los Angeles: UCLA Museum of Cultural History, 1977.

Memorial Head (Akan peoples), Dr. Christa Clarke, in Smarthistory, October 9, 2016 (https://smarthistory.org/memorial-head/.)

Akan Terracotta Heads: Gods or Ancestors?, Michelle Gilbert, African Arts 22.4 (August 1989): 34–43, 85–86.

The Asante, Malcolm D. McLeod, London: British Museum Publications Ltd, 1981.

People Making Portraits Making People Living Icons of the Akan, George Nelson Preston, African Arts 23.3, Special Issue: Portraiture in Africa, Part I (July 1990), 70–76, 104.