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Ivory FigureMende
Sierra Leone
18th or 19th century
Ivory figures of this type are extremely rare. This example probably draws inspiration from the earlier intricately-carved Sherbro-Potrugese ivories. The latticework of the chair, the finely rendered details of feet, coiffeur, and hands, and the delicately featured face are notable in this connection. Probably dating to the 19th century or earlier, the exact genesis of this piece is unknown. Whether it was a portrait of an ancestress, a chieftess, or an abstracted characterization of feminine beauty is uncertain. The upper torso, with its prominent breasts and broad shoulders is a striking contrast to the delicate features noted above and the thin legs and arms. The deep patina from evident long use and handling suggest a comparatively early date.
Ivory Figure
Hurst Gallery, 53 Mount Auburn St. Cambridge, MA 02138 tel. 617.491.6888