Beschreibung:

mwana ngana
Wood with rich, dark brown patina with traces of ochre pigment, human hair
Height 13 3/4in (35cm)
Provenance
Senegalese Private Collection, prior to 1960
Pierre Dartevelle, Brussels
A CIRAM Report (no. 0521-OA-326X-2) concluding the figure was carved in the early 20th Century or earlier accompanies the sculpture.
The figure probably represents a chief's leading wife or queen mother, both of whom held important courtly positions in Chokwe society. She stands firmly on a square base with legs bent at the knees, her arms at her side with both hands in front. Her fingers and hands are emphasized and clearly delineated. Her sloping shoulders frame her projecting, conical shaped breasts. The face projects slightly forward with high cheekbones and full lips. The figures naturalism is further enhanced by her opulent coiffure, composed of real hair.