Zaire BaKongo Male Figure #1

Older carving measuring approx. 13 inches tall
This wonderful old wood carved figure is from Zaire (now called the Democratic Republic of the Congo), made by the BaKongo people. It is approximately 13 inches tall, and the base measures 2.7 x 2.5 inches. It is all hand carved from a single piece of wood Details of the carvings can be seen in the pictures below. Note the carved snakes coming over either choulder and the distended navel.

I would guess this carving dates from 1950-1970, but one can never be sure about the ages of African carvings. It has a very nice used patina. There are the normal signs of usage, with light rubbing and some soil in the grooves. I have done nothing to clean or polish this carving, since I realize collectors often want objects in "as found" condition. See the photos below for more details.