Description:

Africa, Inland Nigeria, Chamba, ca. early 20th century CE. A seated terracotta figure with outstretched arms and legs and a very expressive visage with signs of a large and perhaps open mouth. The figure is also wearing an animorphic mask with horns and costume with a tail. On the underside are incised markings that seem to delineate female genitalia. Such figures are regarded as a medium for communicating with the spirit world. It is very possible that this particular example was used as a medium to cure or protect people from snake bites. Such figures were attached to an iron spike (notice the cutout on the underside) and inserted into the earth. Chamba figures are quite rare and their function is still being explored by Africanists. Size: 8" W x 13.75" H (20.3 cm x 34.9 cm)

Provenance: Ex. Peter Arnovick Collection

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#112538

  • Condition: Encrusted surface with losses to the hands, feet, mouth, chest appendage, and tail as shown. Possible repair to torso. Still a rare and fascinating example.

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May 12, 2016 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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