A rare and beautiful terracotta statuette with a striking presence and expressive movement. We have little information on these terracotta sculptures, although we know of ancient traditions of anthropomorphic pottery sculptures with mask- or head-shaped spouts in the Benue valley, notably among the Mumuye or Chamba, but also especially among the Cham or Jen in the Gongola valley. The size, movement and expression of this one make it one of the most beautiful known, and although it has been acquired as coming from Mumuye country, the other rare comparable statuettes with the same movement are apparently all referenced as Mama-Kantana. Mama-Kantana or Mumuyé, Nigeria Terracotta, restorations to the neck and one arm broken and glued (original parts), small visible chips, beautiful patina. Height: 43cm Provenance: Jacques Viault Collection Jacques Viault Collection, acquired in Douala