Lot 192
**First Time At Auction**
Western Africa, Bura Asinda-Sikka, southwest Niger, ca. 700 to 900 CE. Wow! A rare example of a figural urn with both its head and its body present. It features a human head with wonderfully depicted, three-dimensional hair, almond-shaped eyes, a small nose and an ovoid mouth. The head is attached to the bulbous, hollow body by a wide neck. Arms emerge from the shoulders to rest against the center of the body, while vertical strips and discs in relief on the chest give an impression of clothing or ornament. The vessel stands atop a petite flared foot. Size: 7.25" W x 16.25" H (18.4 cm x 41.3 cm)
Little is known about the Bura Asinda-Sikka archaeological site, which was discovered and excavated only in the last few decades. It is a necropolis that was filled with anthropomorphic and zoomorphic terracotta figurines, frequently placed above inhumation-style burials. Many of these burials had accompanying grave goods such as bronze jewellery, iron weapons, and glass beads (the latter indicating that this culture had trade ties across the Sahara with North Africa). Figures like this one are thought to represent individuals.
This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report will accompany purchase.
Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; ex-Merton Simpson Gallery, New York, USA, 1980s
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#142246
- Condition: One arm has been repaired from multiple pieces, and there is a small puncture on one side of the body. There is also a loss to the lower part of the foot, although the vessel can stand on its own. Great thick deposits on surface and wonderful preservation of form.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 24.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |