A Dogon Hermaphrodite Figure, Niongom Style, Mali

the figure with short bent openwork legs, prominent phallus, curved elongated body with breasts, the left arm of enormous proportions raised and extended to the side, the head with typical features; fine weathered reddish brown patina with partial encrustation.  

very good condition overall for an object of this style and age; minor insect damage, age cracks throughout; fine weathered reddish brown patina with partial encrustation.
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 Niongom style was first identified by Leloup (1994: 132-134): "our informants were unanimous in saying that they were a population that had always inhabited the Bombou, even before the arrival of the Dogon-Mande whose rites had been preserved. [...The statues] are often tall; round, exaggerated head with the skullcap emphasized by a slit; accentuated facial traits; arrow-shaped nose; button- or lozenge-shaped eyes; prognathism; arms attached to the body; breasts hanging from a kind of massive neckline (formed by the shoulders) across which there is a large herringbone motif; there are no scarifications except when families were influenced by the Djennenke. Many seem to be hermaphrodite [...The] Niongom style presents one specific feature: the use of the natural shape of a branch, of it's curve [...] which is rare in African sculpture."