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an old wooden statue of a man with his arms crosseda wooden statue of a man with a hat on his headan image of a wooden statue of a man standing on one leg
MILLON

183 - A very ancient female figure with bowed, sturdy legs forming…
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Estimate €600 - €800
Sale commission
Description
A very ancient female figure with bowed, sturdy legs forming a graceful curve. The genitals are subtly sculpted, and the lower abdomen features scarification in a spiked pattern. She wears a flat headdress, possibly intended to hold offerings. Hardwood, weathered by time and the elements. Bongo, Sudan 77 × 21 cm Provenance: Max Itzikowitz, Paris Liliane and Michel Durand-Dessert Collection, Paris The Bongo people of Sudan practised ritual scarification, an ancient tradition involving the incision of the skin to create symbolic patterns. These body markings were often associated with rites of passage, social distinctions or aesthetic criteria. In Bongo statuary, the scarifications – particularly on the lower abdomen of female figures – reflect these cultural practices, symbolising fertility, social status or membership of a community. The platform headdress, meanwhile, may indicate a ceremonial role, serving as a base for offerings during rituals dedicated to ancestors or protective spirits. >> Lot to be collected from the storage facility in Neuilly-sur-Marne. Transfer to Paris subject to a charge
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About the sale Journey Across the Continents (sale without live performance)
Auction location
Auction time 09/10/2026 at 1:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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