Amulet

Grasslands, Cameroon
Late 19th/Early 20th Century

Of naturalistic style this diminutive figure functions as a personal protective amulet against forms of evil and harm. Sometimes kept in bags or worn around the neck or body, these charms were an important part of everyday life. The compact yet detailed body and expressive face suggests this was carved by a skilled sculptor. One by the same hand can be found in WILD SPIRITS the exhibition catalog from the Museum of African Art 1990. Carved from a medium density wood; with a dark handled patina. Note: the lighter portion of the top of the head was were human hair was once attached; see the WS example for this.

This amulet stands 3.1" tall
SOLD / IN 10-1-10