Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ubangi region, Bwaka people, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A finely hand carved wooden figural effigy standing on thick delineated legs, presenting a nude body. The round torso has two low relief circular nipples and narrow arms that freely rest at his sides, and around his neck are a few dozen glass beads in cobalt green, yellow, orange, and red, all strung on a cord. The rounded head is stylized with a broad noise, coffee bean eyes with indented pupils, a slightly open mouth with scarification marks around the lips, and prominent cupped ears. The coiffure consists of incised lines that create a checkerboard pattern across the top of the head. This piece is likely a protective ancestor or deity spirit, and the wood has a lovely deep espresso patina with a luster has developed across much of the surface. Size: 3" L x 2.3" W x 9.5" H (7.6 cm x 5.8 cm x 24.1 cm); 11.25" H (28.6 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Jean Zimmermann collection, New York, USA

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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#163712

Surface abrasions and chipping along legs and arms, and chips to high pointed areas. Stable cavity on top of head. Beads are intact and dark patina throughout.