The typical masks of the Bete are more frequent (see cat. no. 43). Unlike them, large ancestor figures, such as the present one, are rare. In earlier days they were used for the funerals of important personalities.
Carved in very hard wood and dyed black. In the typical muscular style of the Bete, the woman stands on markedly strong legs. The plaited coiffure is executed in fine lines and reveals remains of former red colouring with powdered redwood. The expressively crafted face has high eyebrow arches, deep-set, slit coffee bean eyes, accentuated cheekbones, round stylised ears and a wide, thin-lipped mouth with a row of teeth carved out from the same piece. Typical tribal scarification marks are visible on the disproportionally long neck and also on the abdomen, within a rectangle around the protruding navel. The muscular arms are detached from the body and slightly bent, the palms of the hands facing forward in a summoning gesture. A vertical line on the back accentuates the upright posture of the elongated figure, which looks big and powerful.
A rare piece with beautiful shiny patina. Only minor age-related damage (tears to the neck and shoulders, and some small pieces broken off on the fingers and feet). Otherwise in excellent condition.
First half of the 20th century; H: 82 cm. (ME)

Provenance: Austrian Private Collection.

Lit.: 'Die Kunst des schwarzen Afrika' by Kerchache, Paudrat, Stephan, fig. 59, 60; 'African Art in American Collections' by Robbins & Nooter, fig. 332, 335.