**Originally Listed At $500**
West Africa, Burkina Faso, Dagaaba people / Dagari language speakers, ca. early to mid 20th century CE. A fascinating anthropomorphic wooden figure from one of the most abstract artistic traditions in the world. The figure is hand-carved, with an elongated triangular presentation, has long legs that meet at a small waist with a protruding cone suggesting a large phallus on the front. The lengthy, cylindrical torso towers above the delineated legs and terminates with a rounded head on top that boast a pointed chin and no other discernible facial features. Size: 11.5" W x 38.375" H (29.2 cm x 97.5 cm); 40.125" H (101.9 cm) on included custom stand.
Dagari figures represent abstract ideals, hence their abstract forms, and are designed to look mysterious and brooding because they commune with a world beyond human comprehension or even sight. Figures like this one are carved to be kept inside a chamber and atop a personal altar built into a family dwelling. Their role was to protect the home from any misfortune or illness. In exchange, they could demand offerings - food and sacrifices - and also demand additional figures to be placed beside them, leading to an accumulation of similar sculptures in the home.
Provenance: ex-private Pearson collection, Denver, Colorado, USA
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#143256
Condition
Losses to portions of legs and upper body, with chipping to legs, body, head, and verso, and inactive insect damage. Light earthen deposits and patina throughout.