Authentic "gorgeous form" Large (24 1/2 inches) early 20th century West African (Nigeria-Cameroon border) fertility Piece Namji/ Dowayo culture. Dolls such as these were given to young Namji girls as a toy doll but also to prepare her for motherhood. In addition, caring for such dolls was believed to promote fertility. Often the dolls were worn strapped to the back like a real infant. This figure stands on two thick bowed legs, and the elongated body supports similarly shaped shoulders and downward pointed arms. The tall neck is topped by a small rounded head with simple features that include a crested coiffure and drilled eyes. The body is decorated with incised linear patterns along the shoulders and thighs. Around the body is a wrapped ankara style cloth with a green, abstract pattern. The waist is wrapped with a rattan cord strung with dozens of white glass beads. Metal wires are wrapped around the neck and ankles. Size: 9" W x 24.5" H (22.9 cm x 62.2 cm); 25.5" H (64.8 cm) on included custom stand.
Statue in overall very good antique condition with great Patina some Staple cracks on chin and body. Earthen encrustations to beads. Age commensurate weathering to the wood.
Provenance: Certificate of Authenticity from well respected Gallery that specializes in Antiquities where piece was originally purchased. Further-private San Francisco, California, USA collection, acquired 1970s to 2000s
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Released from private collection that has sold in New York City galleries as well as top auction-Guaranteed Authentic
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