Head

The sculpture shows a clay head with an oblong face. It is graphite-coloured from the top of the head to the nose, while its lips and the rounded chin are beige. The two-coloured effect observed on the sculpture may have been caused by a leak in the kiln at the end of the reduction firing or reduction in the firing temperature. It may also have been caused by the artist's lack of experience and skills in reduced atmosphere firing. The origins and purpose of the terracotta figurines from Djenne-Jeno (also called old Djenne or Djenne, Djenne-Djenno, Jenne-Jeno, or old Jeno); the city was founded in the 3rd century BC and abandoned in the 14th century) are still the subject of scientific research. During excavations, sculptures were discovered in parts of residential houses, where they were most likely placed on domestic altars. Many researchers believe that they may have represented dead ancestors or guardian spirits. The thesis is supported by the fact that the cult of ancestors and the belief in guardian spirits, which are supposed to protect households, are still alive in that region.

Katarzyna Findlik-Gawron