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West Africa, Burkina Faso, northern Yatenga region, Mossi peoples, ca. 20th century CE. A wonderful wooden male figure shown standing nude save for a belt of white glass beads. Relief ceremonial scarifaction adorns the neck and torso as the sculpture stands atop bent legs on an integral plinth with arms at either side. Surmounted by an incised coiffure known as a gyonfo, his serene visage displays slendereyes, a triangular nose, and pursed lips, all flanked by a pair of circular ears. Note his prominent navel and phallus, highlighting themes of procreation and fertility. Size: 4.8″ L x 5.8″ W x 22.6″ H (12.2 cm x 14.7 cm x 57.4 cm)
Condition: Natural pitting and fissures to wood as shown; all stable. Some chips and abrasions commensurate with age, but otherwise very nice presentation with rich patina throughout.
Provenance: ex-Adeon Gallery, Chicago, IL, acquired prior to 1970
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