Malian Seated Female Holding Arm and Belly

Little minty-green figure with crossed hands and legs stretched out in front.

This bronze seated female holding her arm and belly, Djenne is Djenne, from Mali, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. Gestures of a hand held to the belly or limb in African figurative art can be read in different ways, including as references to fertility, illness or care. Tall, slender figure with a long torso, a round chest, and a simple face with a short beard-like shape or collar. Both hands cross at the waist. Its legs extend flat in front. The surface is soft green with brown shadows. It is 0.75 inches wide, 0.75 deep and 2.25 high.

Relaxed seat, careful hands, and a lovely sea-glass color.