**First Time At Auction**

Western Africa, southwest Niger, Bura Asinda-Sikka culture, ca. 3rd to 13th century CE. An intriguing standing depiction of an anthropomorphic ancestral figure, hand-carved from pale-grey stone. The figure stands upon fused legs and holds a faded object against the broad chest. The spade-shaped head displays rounded eyes and a tall conical nose in relief. Size: 3.7" W x 11" H (9.4 cm x 27.9 cm); 11.25" H (28.6 cm) on included custom stand.

Little is known about this archaeological site, which was discovered and excavated only in the last few decades. It is a necropolis that was filled with anthropomorphic and zoomorphic terracotta figurines, frequently placed above inhumation-style burials; many of these burials had accompanying grave goods such as bronze jewelry, iron weapons, and glass beads (the latter indicating that this culture had trade ties across the Sahara with North Africa).

Provenance: Estate of R. Pearson, Denver, Colorado, USA; Mr. Pearson collected from the third quarter of the 20th century until he passed away.; ex-Peter Arnovick collection, San Francisco, California, USA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#145226

Head reattached to neck with small chips and light adhesive residue along break line. Minor nicks to legs, body, and head, with light softening to some raised details. Nice earthen deposits throughout.