30 - Kneeling female figure, fragmentary

Kneeling female figure, fragmentary Akan cultural sphere. Côte d’Ivoire Without base Wood. H 27 cm. W 22 cm. Provenance: Swiss private collection, Bern. Acquired in Abidjan between 1969 and 1972. Stylistically, the kneeling female figure can be classified within the context of well-known West African sculptural traditions, yet it is distinguished by its unusual form. The body is rendered with strikingly broad shoulders, powerful arms, and strongly accentuated breasts, while the hips and legs are proportionally much smaller. This creates a silhouette that becomes increasingly voluminous toward the top, taking on an almost monumental quality. A distinctive feature is the painted-on bra, which further emphasizes the pronounced feminine forms. The head is missing. The design of the preserved neck suggests that it may have been originally carved separately and attached to the body, possibly as a movable, marionette-like element. However, the original construction cannot be definitively determined. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 938 Condition: Hammer Auctions places great importance on providing a careful and as precise as possible description of all lots offered in the catalog. Each lot is documented with multiple photographs intended to provide as comprehensive an impression of its condition as possible. This includes, in particular, visible signs of wear, irregularities, and age-related changes. We recommend that all interested parties and bidders carefully examine the photographs before placing a bid, as they form an essential part of the lot description. In addition, we recommend viewing the items in person before the auction, if possible. All condition descriptions are provided to the best of our knowledge and belief and are based on our professional assessment. They are provided for informational purposes only and do not claim to be exhaustive. In particular, there may be age- or use-related characteristics that are neither explicitly mentioned nor visible in the photographs. Hammer Auctions assumes no liability for unintentional errors or omissions in the condition descriptions to the extent permitted by law. However, we always strive to resolve any ambiguities or concerns in a transparent, fair, and straightforward manner. Should a lot deviate in material respects from its catalog description, Hammer Auctions offers a return option in accordance with the following provisions. Buyers may report such a deviation in writing within seven (7) calendar days of receiving the lot. If the complaint is justified, the lot may be returned by mutual agreement. The purchase price will be refunded in full upon receipt and inspection of the returned item. We are always happy to assist you personally with any questions, additional photographs, or further information.