Edo Crossleg Male Figure with Sword on Back

Cross-legged figure sits square with ringed arms, wearing a stern, carved face.

This cross-legged male figure with a sword on his back, in bronze is Edo (Benin), from West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. Seated and cross-legged figures are a recurring form in Benin brasswork, and the sword is generally read as a sign of rank or military role. Seated cast figure with legs crossed and hands resting on the knees, a rounded belly at the center. Several rings circle the arms, and a band crosses the chest. The surface is textured, in blue-green tones with darker flecks. It is 1.5 inches wide, 1 deep and 3.25 high.

A seat on the floor, a firm gaze and no hurry.