Hand-carved to display a tall female figure
depicted nude, who stretches her arms above her head. Her elongated body features short, bent legs, large, pendulous breasts, and a protruding belly, suggestive of pregnancy.
There is some wood erosion as can be seen in the photos.
A charm necklace hangs around her neck.
According to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, "Dogon sculpture is primarily concerned with the spirits responsible for the fertility of both land and people."
The most distinctive subject of Dogon sculptures is that of a single figure standing with raised arms. This posture has usually been interpreted as a gesture of prayer—an effort to link earth and heavens—and it has been suggested that it may represent an appeal for rain.
In Dogon sculpture, the middle finger is not generally a symbol of offense or disrespect as in many Western cultures. Instead, it represents a hand gesture used particularly in connection with sacrificial practices, and is not intended as an insult. The specific meaning can vary depending on the context and its intended use, but it's not inherently derogatory.
It may in fact be be used to ward off evil spirits.
Height: 51 ˝" x Width: 8" x Depth: 8"
