Fetish figure - temne - Sierra Leone - Protective charm

Very ancient Temne Protective Charm from Sierra Leone.
The Temne are one of the major ethnic groups of Sierra Leone, in the north and north-central, predominantly engaged in agriculture, with a strong traditional social structure.
As with many peoples of the region, they blend traditional elements (animism, ancestors, spirits, invisible forces) with Islam or Christianity depending on the region.
Soapstone, or steatite, is a soft material that is fairly easy to carve, making it a material used for sculptures, figurines and carved heads.
Charming object, from an old private collection.
Careful packaging and fast shipping, signature required on delivery.