Africa, Sierra Leone, Kissi/Sapi/Mende peoples, ca. 14th to 17th century CE. A carved stone figural head of a characteristically elongated and enlarged form, the visage delineated with assymetrically positioned globular eyes, a prominent nose, petite, round concave ears, and pursed full lips. Additionally carved long striations run down below each ear, below the lips, as well as down the back of the neck. The Kissi call such stone anthropomorphic carvings Pombo (Pomtam - plural), a word that literally translates to "deceased," while the Mende call them Nomoli. These sculptures are regarded as intermediaries between the living and their ancestors. Such carved works have been found on the lands of the Kissi, Mende, and Sapi kingdoms, and continue to be placed upon commemorative shrines or altars as it is common practice to engage in ritual recycling. A very expressive example from these ancient peoples. Size: 5" L x 3" W x 8.25" H (12.7 cm x 7.6 cm x 21 cm)

Provenance: Ex Peter Arnovick Collection, Los Altos CA

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#112215

Gracefully aged stone with mineral deposits.