Hip ornament showing a ram

This large rams-head ornament has a sturdy loop hidden in the cavity behind it, meant to help secure the waist wrapper of a high-ranking member of the Benin court.  The artist has stylized the ram's horns, and added a delicate border of coiled mudfish to the lower edge.  Although mudfish may seem humble creatures, their ability to live dormant in dried river beds makes them a potent symbol of the Oba's ability to live in both earthly and spiritual realms.  The mudfish form small loops that would have held small rattles or bells--two remain.  Imagine the sound of a richly dressed courtier approaching with this finely made ornament on his hip.