158 - Nigeria/Cameroon, Bénoué Region

Nigeria/Cameroon, Bénoué Region Chamba Figure Sculpture Wood with a dark patina H. 41 cm Anthropomorphic Chamba figure depicted standing, resting on carved feet. The body features an angular and massive style, characteristic of the statuary of the Benue region. Beautiful dark, satiny patina from use Settled on either side of the border between Nigeria and Cameroon, in the Benue Valley, the Chamba have produced statuary of great expressive power, which for a long time remained less well-known than that of their neighbors. This standing figure, resting on carved feet, displays the characteristic features of their art: a body rendered in angular and massive volumes, reduced to its essential lines. This economy of form, which has fascinated modern artists, gives the sculpture an almost abstract presence. The dark, satiny patina attests to prolonged use.