Sculpture, Sirène - 42 cm - Wood

This wooden sculpture depicts a female figure in a style that evokes a mermaid or an aquatic deity.

She stands upright with a long, slender torso, expressive facial features, and wide-open eyes.

Her chest is highlighted, and she holds in her hands symbolic elements: a mask and a kind of oar or elongated object, often associated with rites or fishing.

The bottom of the piece, thicker and wider, resembles the tail or the seat of an aquatic creature, reinforcing the impression of a mermaid or a water spirit.

The wood features various natural shades with some dark highlights.

Probable origin: West Africa, probably Ghana, Benin, or Togo, regions where sculptures of mythological figures, water spirits, or mermaids (often associated with Mami Wata) are common in traditions and craftsmanship.