Dogon Kneeling Female Figure, Mali

Merton D. Simpson, New York
Donald Morris, Birmingham, Michigan
George Schwellinger, Detroit, acquired from the above
By descent through the family
Sotheby's, New York, November 19, 1999, lot 11, consigned by the above
Myron Kunin, Minneapolis, acquired at the above auction

Hamline University Art Galleries, Saint Paul, Icons of Perfection: Figurative Sculpture from Africa, December 2, 2005 – February 11, 2006

Frank Herreman, Icons of Perfection: Figurative Sculpture from Africa, Saint Paul, 2006, p. 16, cat. 2
Frank Herreman, "Icons of Perfection: Some Thoughts on the Relationship between Aesthetics and Function in African Sculpture", Tribal Art, Vol. X, No. 3, Spring 2006, p. 94, fig. 8
No author listed, "Student curators make show of African Sculpture a rare treat", Star Tribune, Minneapolis, January 6, 2006, Section F

Good condition for an object of this type and age. Old loss to lower proper right arm at the elbow. Age crack through center of integrally-carved base between the knees. Other minor age cracks. Old area of erosion to upper back. Marks, chips, nicks and abrasions consistent with age and use. Fine surface of crusty remains of ritually-applied material with glossy blackened surface and accumulated encrustation. Fixed to modern wood base with a screw 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.

With rhythmically echoing lines, cubistic geometry, and ornately-fashioned openwork, this ingenious Dogon figure is a masterpiece of miniature sculpture. Depicting a kneeling female adorned with the characteristic lip-plug and crested coiffure, it bears a crusty patina accumulated over many years of ritual use. The extraordinary artistic quality of this object affirms Myron Kunin's carefully refined aesthetic.