Overview
A hand-modeled terracotta figure in the Koma tradition of northern Ghana. The head tilts upward, with a broad face and raised features, a ring-shaped ear at one side, and a round, cup-like hollow open at the top of the head. A notched collar circles the neck, and a wide band of raised, notched blocks crosses the chest diagonally from one shoulder. Below, a rounded belly sits above a short apron of vertical lines, with a block of incised marks at one side. The clay is a warm orange-red, coarse and gritty, with small dark grains and darker earth deposits around one side of the head. It makes a strong display piece for a shelf, desk or a collection of African terracotta.
About Age and Authenticity
This figure 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 figure 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
Koma terracotta figures come from the Koma Land area of northern Ghana, where they have been found around burial mounds, and they are generally dated to roughly the 6th to 14th centuries. Many have openings in the head, and collars, sashes and other body ornaments are common. This figure is unsigned.
Condition
The figure sits on its short, folded legs, which form a rough, uneven base, with a foot visible at one side. The surface is weathered and granular, with earth deposits, small chips and wear, and darker deposits on one side of the head. No repairs seen. Please see all photos.
Dimensions & Weight
The figure is about 8.0 inches high, 3.0 inches wide and 3.0 inches deep (H x W x D). It weighs about 1 lb 13 oz.
Shipping
Free standard shipping within the US, packed securely.
