Standing Male Figure

Wide features of the face include large coffee- bean eyes, broad nose and thick lips. The head is turned slightly; the hair or cap is ridged in a similar vertical relief pattern as the two objects he holds in his hands. These are most likely gourd rattles used in ceremonies, but have also been interpreted as fruits or tubers. Small statues such as this one represent both male and female, and maintain the same rigid pose suggesting they may be shamans during a ritual act. There is a sense of confidence and commanding presence in the posture; with the added human touch of the man’s quizzical turn of the head and expressive eyes.