Overview
A pair of hand-modeled terracotta animal figures in the tradition of the Inland Niger Delta (Djenne) region of Mali. Each is a simple four-legged animal with a long, rounded body, short stump legs and a blunt head with small raised ears or horns, suggesting cattle or rams. The slightly larger figure has small raised eyes and a back end that curves down like a tail. The clay is a pale peach-orange, coarse and gritty, with small dark and white mineral grains and darker earth deposits in places. The forms are simple and soft-edged, and the pair looks good side by side on a shelf, desk or with other African terracotta.
About Age and Authenticity
This pair comes from an ex Barnes collection batch (Jerald Barnes, an American collector who lived in West Africa for over a decade). Other terracotta pieces from the same collection lot have been thermoluminescence (TL) tested. This pair itself has not been tested. We make no claim about its age and sell it as is. Buyers are welcome to arrange their own TL testing.
Background
Terracotta sculpture was made in the Inland Niger Delta of Mali, around the city of Djenne, from roughly the 11th to the 16th century, and animal figures appear alongside the better-known human figures. These two figures are solid and unsigned.
Condition
One figure has an old break across its front leg that has been repaired; the join line is visible. Both figures have a weathered, granular surface with earth deposits and small chips and wear, especially at the legs, ears and heads. Each figure has a thin metal pin set into the underside for mounting on a stand; no stands are included. Please see all photos.
Dimensions & Weight
The larger figure is about 6.0 inches long, 3.0 inches high and 2.2 inches wide. The smaller figure is about 5.8 inches long, 2.5 inches high and 2.3 inches wide. Together they weigh about 1 lb 11 oz.
Shipping
Free standard shipping within the US, packed securely.
