Figure - Nigeria (No reserve price)

Figure carrying a ritual cup in carved wood on a pedestal – Yoruba – Nigeria – second half of the 20th century Anthropomorphic African sculpture in carved and patinated wood, probably from the Yoruba tradition of Nigeria. The composition features a stylized human face with almond-shaped eyes, a marked nose and a striated hairstyle, surmounted by a large circular vessel deeply hollowed. A long carved element runs along the head and connects to the upper vessel, reminiscent of the construction of cup-bearing figures used in various Yoruba ritual practices. The wood shows a significant brown to brown-black patina, numerous signs of wear, abrasions, cracks, and carving marks. The interior of the vessel also preserves a very irregular and patinated surface. The sculpture is now presented vertically on a contemporary black pedestal with a metal stem, allowing an attractive museum-quality display. Yoruba cup-bearing figures could be used as vessels for offerings or associated with shrines. Some forms called arugba Shango notably support a vessel on the head with elongated arms.

Estimate:$1.12

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