A Pair of Early Dan Standing Figures... (Total: 2 )

Description

A Pair of Early Dan Standing Figures

The figures carved as a matched pair in classical Dan style with coifs indicating gender; each with remains of pigmentation across the eyes, the heads well carved above thin necks with neck rings indicating status. The torsos with elaborate scarification, and the bodies with prominent genitalia and long legs. Some damage to the face of the female figure and some pigment loss.

Dan figures, known as Lu Me, often depict the wives of chiefs and were created simply as objects of prestige. These examples, collected prior to WWII were likely made for very early sale to missionaries and Firestone workers (as were many of these types of objects). The style of the figures recalls the work of Zlan, though they lack his signature softness, finesse and proportional balance and are quite a bit larger than his known compositions. It is quite possible they were made by an apprentice or contemporary of Zlan however. These were undoubtedly carved by an important Dan carver who was already accomplished having mastered his canon, as can be evidenced in the confidence and surety in the unusual attenuated proportions of the bodies.

Heights: 34 and 35 inches


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