353 - SEATED FEMALE FIGURE HOLDING A STATUETTE

SEATED FEMALE FIGURE HOLDING A STATUETTE Mid-20th century. Metal alloy (copper, brass). Dimensions: H. 40 cm. A female figure seated cross-legged on a circular base adorned with visible woven or basketwork. Her face is turned upward, her mouth wide open revealing her teeth, and her eyes are bulging. In one hand she holds a breast, and in the other a small, removable male figure. Large disc-shaped earrings; a striated headdress; her abdomen adorned with woven motifs reminiscent of basketry. A curiosity item produced for the Central African tourist market in the 20th century (?). Condition: Dark reddish-brown, uniform patina, with a lustrous appearance in places. Research and documentation: Coryse Mwape, art historian specializing in ancient African art. Internal ref.: 1080