Mambila Polychrome Seated Figure

Attributed to an artist of the Mambila people of Nigeria and Cameroon, this earthenware figure depicts a seated man holding a mask to his face. Possibly depicting a clan's ancestor, figures such as this were used in a variety of contexts, such as to elicit wealth, facilitate healing, and guard sacred shrines. Unusual for the medium and seated posture, this figure was likely created as a decorative sculpture in the tradition of Mambila statuary.