Votive statuette - Chamba - Nigeria

Nigeria
Chamba culture
Statuette
Wood
Height 34 cm

Intriguing Chamba statuette from Nigeria. The face is captivating, it is as if blurred, changing and intangible. The nose is high, the eyes are globular, the mouth is slightly open, the ears are forward. The body is elongated, fine and elegant. The volumes are schematic, geometric and angular. The sculpture is dynamic. The figure seems to be waiting, in a votive position, hands joined. Whom is he pleading to? For what reason? It is a mysterious work with a special presence.
The patina is superb, a rich and complex orange crust, damaged in places. It looks like tanned skin. Beautiful old patina. Some scratches/blemishes visible in photos, sold as is. An old and authentic collectible piece. Circa 1950.

Provenance :
- Private collection, M. Wyss, Basel, Switzerland.