West Africa, Mali, Bamana / Malinke peoples, ca. mid-20th century CE. A hand-carved door lock depicting a stylized anthropomorphic figure in the traditional Bamana style, which includes the horizontal slide bar. The vertical component represents a stylized human figure with a crested headdress or coiffure, bold facial features, an angular neck. The figure is female with protruding breasts and prominent belly button all atop slightly bent legs, and the incised linear motifs, are likely intended to represent tattooing or scarification. Size: 18.75" L x 3" W x 22" H (47.6 cm x 7.6 cm x 55.9 cm); 25" H (63.5 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: ex-private Bishop Family Trust collection, the Trust of the late Bill Bishop, a noted antiquarian with shops in Scottsdale, Arizona and Allenspark, Colorado, USA, acquired before 2010

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#173483

Bar beam is secured via modern screw to body. Patina has been enhanced via smoke throughout. Surface abrasions commensurate with age and use. Stable pressure fissures.