Bidjogo Maternity Group, Bissagos Islands, Guinea-Bissau

Private Collection, Europe
Sotheby's, New York, November 15, 2002, lot 2
Myron Kunin, Minneapolis, acquired at the above auction

Good condition for an object of this type and age. Losses to front and front right corner of integrally-carved plinth. Minor worm holes. Minor marks, nicks, scratches, abrasions, and small chips consistent with age and use. A series of regular vertical notches around the shoulders and torso probably from previous attachments. Fine aged light wood patina with remains of dark stain. Permanently fixed to modern wood base with two metal pins embedded in underside.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The Bidjogo constitute a relatively small people living on the Bissagos Islands of present-day Guinea Bissau, numbering less than 10,000 in pre-colonial times. Their traditional sculpture ranges from highly abstract, minimal compositions to naturalistic representations, with the most highly prized examples being those which, like the present figure, combine these two aesthetics.  For a nearly identical figure in the collection of the Musée d'Ethnographie de Neuchâtel, Switzerland (inv. no. "III.C.4586"), see Gordk (1976: 17, fig. 12).