This male figure is depicted standing in an upright position with his arms, possibly tied together, behind his back. He exhibits the protruding facial features - such as a pronounced nose, mouth and jaw - that are typically found among figures from the Djenne period in Mali. The figure has a deep encrusted oxidised surface patina, likely as a result of burial and excavation.
Small bronze figurines from the Djenne period are some of the earliest known examples of African figurative art. A lot is unknown about this figurine's use, but it is considered, beside other functions, that such figures were possibly kept in family shrines and buried with the deceased.
Ex Private Collection, Switzerland
Estimated Period: 12th Century - 16th Century
H: 8cm
H (Incl. Stand): 13cm
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