Authentic Large (25 inches) Early 20th C. African Namji Wood Figure w/ COA Nigeria-Cameroon Ritual FERTILITY Doll -Stunning Piece

Authentic "gorgeous form" Large (24 1/2 inches) early 20th century West African (Nigeria-Cameroon border) fertility Piece Namji/ Dowayo culture. Dolls such as these were given to young Namji girls as a toy doll but also to prepare her for motherhood. In addition, caring for such dolls was believed to promote fertility. Often the dolls were worn strapped to the back like a real infant. This figure stands on two thick bowed legs, and the elongated body supports similarly shaped shoulders and downward pointed arms. The tall neck is topped by a small rounded head with simple features that include a crested coiffure and drilled eyes. The body is decorated with incised linear patterns along the shoulders and thighs. Around the body is a wrapped ankara style cloth with a green, abstract pattern. The waist is wrapped with a rattan cord strung with dozens of white glass beads. Metal wires are wrapped around the neck and ankles. Size: 9" W x 24.5" H (22.9 cm x 62.2 cm); 25.5" H (64.8 cm) on included custom stand. Statue in overall very good antique condition with great Patina some Staple cracks on chin and body. Earthen encrustations to beads. Age commensurate weathering to the wood. Free domestic shipping. Provenance: Certificate of Authenticity from well respected Gallery that specializes in Antiquities where piece was originally purchased. Further-private San Francisco, California, USA collection, acquired 1970s to 2000s Released from private collection that has sold in New York City galleries as well as top auction-Guaranteed Authentic All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. Returns & exchanges Refunds and Exchanges We accept returns within 30 days of the purchase of the item. However, the buyer is responsible for shipping the item back to us and that cost will not be refunded. We will refund your money for the item as soon as we receive the item back. Please send the item back to us with tracking or insured.