Kotoko Bronze Maternity Figure

Bent forward, hands in lap, the bronze leans into its own quiet work.

Kotoko casters of Chad, Central Africa, made this maternity figure in bronze in the early 20th century. Kotoko cast figures are often small and compact, with elongated features, and motherhood is a widespread theme in African art, associated with continuity and fertility. A long, narrow head tops a slender body that curves forward. The arms reach down toward a flared base at the lap. The surface is dark green-brown, with a lighter, worn green along the ridges.

Small enough to hold in one hand. Gravity, apparently, has been persuaded to be gentle.