African Namji Wood Fertility Doll w/ Glass Beads
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Description
West Africa, Nigeria-Cameroon border, Namji / Dowayo culture, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A hand-carved wooden figure with a stylized form, wrapped in a cloth garment, a strand of glass beads, leather bag shaped squares, and a brass ring through the top of the head. These dolls were used as toys for girls to prepare them for motherhood, and to promote fertility amongst women. Often the dolls were worn strapped to the back like a real infant. Occasionally these dolls were given to infertile women in the hope that they would aid with pregnancy. Size: 6" L x 2.5" W x 10.5" H (15.2 cm x 6.4 cm x 26.7 cm); 11.5" H (29.2 cm) on included custom stand.
Provenance: ex-collection of the late Peter Arnovick, San Francisco, California, USA, acquired before 1995
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#180744
Provenance: ex-collection of the late Peter Arnovick, San Francisco, California, USA, acquired before 1995
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#180744
Condition
Abrasions and nicks to wood surface, Left arm reattached with break line at shoulder. Mineral deposits throughout, encrustations to the beads and leather.
Buyer's Premium
- 26.5%
African Namji Wood Fertility Doll w/ Glass Beads
Estimate $700 - $1,050
1 bidder is watching this item.
Shipping & Pickup Options
Item located in Louisville, CO, usSee Policy for Shipping
Local Pickup Available
Payment
Accepts seamless payments through LiveAuctioneers
Auction Curated By
Owner/Executive Director, Antiquities & Pre-Columbian Art
PhD. Art History, Director, Fine & Visual Arts
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