Bobo Standing Male Figure with Beak

He has a beak, and he stands like he knows it.

Bobo metalworkers of Burkina Faso, West Africa, cast this standing male figure in bronze in the 20th century. Cast brass and bronze figures in the region are commonly associated with protection, ritual and personal charms. The body is long and narrow, with bent arms held out from the sides and heavy, rounded feet. A ridged crest or beak runs down the face and chest like a comb. The metal is dark gray-brown and matte, with cast lines and shadowy hollows.

About five and a half inches tall. Sharp profile, sharp posture.