Koma Terra Cotta Funerary Figure, Based

A peaked cap, heavy brows, and a lower lip that juts out in plain disagreement.

This terra cotta head comes from the Koma people of northern Ghana and dates to between the 13th and 17th centuries. Figures of this kind were found in burial-related mounds and are thought to have honored the dead, though much is still being studied. A raised band frames furrowed brows, a broad nose and a large open mouth. A short neck stump remains. The warm tan clay shows earthy deposits in the recesses.

Six and a half inches, on a ring mount, at eye level. Eye level is where it argues best.