A finely carved early female figure from Madagascar, depicted standing with her arms raised and bent, her hands resting upon her shoulders. The head retains an original covering of animal hide with surviving traces of hair, beneath which is a woven textile net.
The figure wears a skirt decorated with naturally derived red and yellow pigments, much of which has survived. Losses to the lower portions of both legs indicate the figure was likely intended to be planted upright in the ground. On the reverse of one lower leg is an old collection number, while the entire surface has developed a lightly encrusted patina consistent with considerable age.
The sculpture possesses a quiet strength and displays the restrained yet expressive qualities characteristic of early figures from Madagascar.
Estimated Period: 1st Half 20th Century, likely 1st Quarter Early
Provenance: Ex Private Collection, France
Height (Incl. Stand): 41cm
Width: 12cm
(Click on images to enlarge)
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