Bidspirit auction | Ancient West African Terracotta Figural

Ancient West African Terracotta Figural Fragment, 500BCE - 1000CE - Nigeria or Niger Region, possibly Nok, Bura, or related tradition, circa 500 BCE-1000 CE. Hand-modeled terracotta figural fragment, possibly representing a head or upper torso, mounted on a later custom wood stand. The figure is formed in reddish earthenware with a long cylindrical neck or body, rounded head, small projecting ears, recessed eyes, modeled nose, and simple mouth. The lower section shows abbreviated projecting elements, possibly arms or remnants of the torso. Size 7 1/2” H, 9 1/4” H on included custom stand Collected in 1979.. Family collection of an esteemed diplomat and ambassador amassed during travel and work circa 1960-1990s in the medical field providing charitable advanced medical care throughout the African continent and internationally. Condition: The surface is coarse and granular, with visible mineral inclusions, earthen deposits, abrasion, and losses throughout. Fragmentary, with surface wear, losses, chips, and encrustation consistent with age and burial.