Ashanti Figures (three figures)
Ghana
A group of three standing figures constructed along a vertical axis, each organised as a compact columnar mass.
Description
Carved from a single wood block, each figure is structured with a circular head set above a segmented neck of stacked rings, leading into a simplified torso with short lateral arms. Figures 1 and 2 taper into a columnar shaft with projecting lateral arm elements, weight-bearing through base integration, the base continuous with the figure mass. Figure 3 is structured with separated legs descending to individually defined feet, weight-bearing through legs and feet.
The figures are aligned frontally. Incised geometric motifs are distributed across the head and body, varying in density and arrangement between the three. Figures 1 and 3 display broad circular heads with elongated almond-shaped eyes and cylindrical necks defined by stacked rings. Figure 2 is distinguished by a more compact head with a serrated coiffure along the upper margin. Figure 3 is further distinguished by a fully articulated lower body with separated legs and feet.
Surface is compact and coherent. Patina is retained across all figures; exposure at projecting elements.
Context
Among the Ashanti, figures of this type are used within practices associated with fertility and childbirth.
Provenance
From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Ghana, 1965.
Details
- Title
- Ashanti Figures (three figures)
- Culture
- Ashanti
- Origin
- Ghana
- Date
- 19th–20th century
- Dimensions
- Figure 1: H 39 cm (15.4 in) · W 14 cm (5.5 in); Figure 2: H 25 cm (9.8 in) · W 11 cm (4.3 in); Figure 3: H 37 cm (14.6 in) · W 13 cm (5.1 in)
- Medium
- Wood
- Provenance
- From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Ghana, 1965.
- Condition
- Surface stable; exposure at projecting elements.
