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Female Figure

A work made of wood, pigment, resin, and abrus seeds.

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  • A work made of wood, pigment, resin, and abrus seeds.

Date:

Early-mid 20th century

Artist:

Probably Kantana
Benue River region, Nigeria
Coastal West Africa

About this artwork

The function of figures like this one would have varied from community to community. The powdery ochre rubbed onto its surface has spiritual connotations, and this pigment has been applied in imitation of a real-life practice of coloring the human body. The red abrus seeds pressed into resin on the figure’s chest and head were used in local medicines and suggest healing and danger.

Status

On View, Gallery 137

Department

Arts of Africa

Culture

Kantana

Title

Female Figure

Place

Nigeria (Object made in)

Date  Dates are not always precisely known, but the Art Institute strives to present this information as consistently and legibly as possible. Dates may be represented as a range that spans decades, centuries, dynasties, or periods and may include qualifiers such as c. (circa) or BCE.

1900–1975

Medium

Wood, pigment, resin, and abrus seeds

Dimensions

H.: 53 cm (20 7/8 in.)

Credit Line

Purchased with funds provided by the Claire B. Zeisler Foundation

Reference Number

1972.173

Extended information about this artwork

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.

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