African Namji Wood Fertility Doll w/ Glass Beads

**Originally Listed At $500**

West Africa, Nigeria-Cameroon border, Namji / Dowayo culture, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A hand-carved wooden figure with a stylized form, wrapped in a cloth garment, a strand of glass beads, leather bag shaped squares, and a brass ring through the top of the head. These dolls were used as toys for girls to prepare them for motherhood, and to promote fertility amongst women. Often the dolls were worn strapped to the back like a real infant. Occasionally these dolls were given to infertile women in the hope that they would aid with pregnancy. Size: 6" L x 2.5" W x 10.5" H (15.2 cm x 6.4 cm x 26.7 cm); 11.5" H (29.2 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: ex-collection of the late Peter Arnovick, San Francisco, California, USA, acquired before 1995

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#180744
Condition Report: Abrasions and nicks to wood surface, Left arm reattached with break line at shoulder. Mineral deposits throughout, encrustations to the beads and leather.