Gurunsi Bronze Armband with Figure, Based

Bronze for the arm, and a figure to watch over it.

Cast-metal ornaments were worn across the region for adornment and protection, and figures were sometimes incorporated. This armband, from the Gurunsi of Burkina Faso, dates to the 20th century.

The figure is slender and upright, with an elongated head, a ring at the neck and short arms extended forward. The long cylindrical torso bears a small navel and divides into two short, tapering legs. The patina is dark brown to black, flecked with red and green spots. Eight and a quarter inches tall, on a slim black stand.

Protection, standing at attention.