A FRENCH SCULPTURE OF AN AFRICAN FEMALE FIGURE

 

19th century

 

The nude on a sculpted rock base, seated on a pillow, carved in wood, with glass eyes and teeth, holding a brass candlestick.

 

 

 

H. 65 x W. 48 x D. 51 cm
 

Note:

Blackamoor art is a European art style depicting African or other nonEuropean persons in a subservient or exoticized form. These figures made in painted wood, in cast bronze, in ceramics and porcelain and in jewellery were very popular in the 19th century. The wooden ones, usually as small tables, holding a tray or as candelabras, were made mainly in Italy from as early as the mid 17th century. Although they are still being made today, their association with colonialism and slavery now has become an issue.