Ornamental Figure From Assin Fon, Benin, First Half Of The 20th Century.

An ornamental figure from Assin depicting a seated figure with long, folded legs, holding a broad sword resting on his shoulder. The curved arms wrap around the lower body, accentuating the verticality of the torso. A striated diadem adorns the upper forehead. A metal belt is fastened around the waist. The overall design is characterized by a slender, rhythmic style, defined by taut lines and minimalist volumes. Wrought iron with a brown patina, in good condition, see photos. Fon, Benin, first half of the 20th century. Dimensions 10 × 3.5 × 5 cm. Provenance: private collection, Paris. "The Assin surmounted Fon commemorative altars dedicated to ancestors and embodied their protective presence within the home. Their deliberately simplified silhouette conveyed the spiritual energy of the figures invoked. The sword resting on the shoulder here refers to a role of authority or vigilance, while the continuous line formed by the arms and torso testifies to the mastery of Fon blacksmiths, capable of creating an expressive presence from minimal forms." Sold with a certificate of authenticity from the expert Serge Reynes.* Shipping costs upon request.