Large Mumuye Figure, Nigeria
igalagana
Wood, pigment
Height 41 1/2in (105.5cm)

Provenance
Philippe Daviaud Collection, Paris
Galerie Ratton-Hourde, Paris
California Private Collection

Of classic form with elongated torso and limbs, the muscular legs with calves and knees emphasized; the shoulders and hips, each carved in domed form, bordering a convex torso with enhanced umbilicus, the arms slightly bent at the elbow; an elongated neck with pronounced laryngeal prominence supporting the spherical head with circular eyes highlighted with kaolin, bordered with proportionally large circular ears with kaolin highlights and topped with a sagittal crest; incised scarifications on chest, front torso and head; dark brown patina with wear indicative of age.

Old erosion and losses to feet and each lower leg; age distress line with separation to right ear and right side of neck; age distress line with separation running down the right side of the back; two holes to left side of upper back; abrasions to surface throughout; minor age distress lines, nicks and scratches consistent with age. Custom base.