Large African Figure

Hi all,

Would love your opinions on this one if you have any I picked it up at a general sale with no back story.

Its very large, 79cm / 31"

My guess is that its a Baule maternity figure. Based on the proportions and the scarification.

Thanks!

Calum

 

Personally , I think it has been sanded to look aged. All of the wear spots are on the same front surfaces and none that I can see that would have happened naturally.

 

agreed thanks

 

I concur....but...still find it easy on the eyes....
maybe it's because of where you've placed it???

 

I think more central African, possibly Lulua/Bena Lulua (DRC), rather than Baule. Baule carvings tend to be much more "elegant". Features that are similar to pieces identified as Lulua are the long, columnar neck; the bulbous shoulders and limbs; the knob on top of the head (hair or headdress?); heavy scarification; and freestanding on 2 feet (not an integral stand). In any case, my feeling is that it is "tourist quality".

 

Thanks a lot all, agreed that the wear is suspect.

@2manybooks I think your right, it is more in the style of Lulua/Bena than Baule. Especially the bulbous shoulders