Wonderfully Symmetrical Female Verre Figure

Central Nigeria Unmasked: Arts of the Benue River Valley discusses how statues like this one came onto the market in the 1960s, describing them as “a number of similar, dark, highly finished female figures attributed to the Verre in relatively new condition.” These figures were likely carved by the same hand or workshop “in the village of Toza, just north of the market town of Karlahi in Nigeria, close to the border with Cameroon.” In terms of appearance, “the figures are stained deepest black or perhaps carbonized. Particular care has been taken to carve braids on the female figures, which predominate (perhaps to the exclusion of males).” Note this female’s accentuated braids and pierced lobes for ear ornaments. The body is symmetrical, the lower half sharply geometric. The sharpness of the facial features is a delightful carving style amongst the Verre.

17″

Inquire About This Item