West Africa, present day Niger and Burkina Faso, Bura-Asinda-Sikka area, ca. 1100 to 1500 CE. A fascinating, hand-carved sandstone to depict an anthropomorphic figure with minimalist features. The stylized sculpture features an elongated, ovoid body with delineated hands and a spade-shaped head with petite eyes, a prominent nose, and a straight mouth. Naturally embellished in warm hues of tan and beige, this fascinating figure was found in a necropolis that was filled with anthropomorphic and zoomorphic terracotta and stone figurines, frequently placed above inhumation-style burials; many of these burials also included bronze jewelry, iron weapons, and glass beads (the latter indicating that this culture had trade ties across the Sahara with North Africa). This object's pointed base would have served as a topper for an urn or as a stake for it to be placed in the ground as a grave marker. Scholars posit that figures like this one were intended to represent individuals. Size: 7.6" L x 2.3" W (19.3 cm x 5.8 cm); 7.9" H (20.1 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: ex-collection of the late Peter Arnovick, San Francisco, California, USA, acquired before 1995

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#180793

Some minor chips, nicks, and abrasions to surface, but otherwise intact and excellent. Drill hole in base for custom stand.