Court Musician Figure

Asante, Ghana
19th-early 20th c.
Brass

Provenance: David Serra, Barcelona; Guy Van Rijn, Belgium

This lively brass figure depicts a court musician playing a curved, side-horn. His bent knees and arms drawn around the instrument give the figure a strong sense of movement. The expressive face, with bulging eyes, a broad nose, and parted lips, is framed by a distinctive crested cap. The back is equally well considered, with clearly modeled shoulder blades and a gently articulated spine. These details give the figure sculptural interest from every angle. A warm, worn patina covers the surface, with lighter highlights across the raised features.