DJENNE ARTIST

Kneeling Figure

Inland Niger Delta, Mali

12th - 14th century

Terracotta

Height 14in (35.5cm)

Provenance

James Willis Gallery, San Francisco

Private Collection, acquired in the 1980s

Terracotta figures originating from Mali occur over a large region and in a number of distinct regional styles. In Jenne-jeno, the oldest known city is sub-Saharan Africa abandoned by A.D. 1400, terracotta figures are modelled in a distinctive style, often with body ornaments, jewelry, clothing, or as in this case, covered throughout with raised bumps representing the pustules of a particularly awful disease. As the snake is linked to the primordial myth among the Djenne and neighboring cultures, figures are shown enveloped or decorated by snakes, as seen in the present work with a snake hanging on its neck. Depicted in a meditative posture, the figure sits upright, kneeling with the arms forward, each hand resting on the knees. Multiple bumps missing throughout; minor nicks, abrasions and wear consistent with age. Custom mount.