Koma Terra Cotta Funerary Figure, Based

A woman, standing, arms at her sides. Nothing so ordinary should have lasted this well.

Koma figures were found in mounds in northern Ghana and are generally believed to have been made for funerary rites. This terra cotta figure dates to the 13th to 17th century. She stands upright with a long neck and a head marked by round eyes, an open mouth and a small crest. Her breasts are small and rounded. The arms hang straight, banded with raised ridges, ending in hands with clearly marked fingers. A banded belt or panel crosses the lower body.

Worn, earthy brown clay. Nine and a half inches.

She has the posture of someone waiting for you to finish.