Terracotta Reclining Figure in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, February 2020

Reclining Figure
12th–14th century


Object Details

Title: Reclining Figure

Date: 12th–14th century

Geography: Mali, Jenne-jeno

Culture: Middle Niger civilization

Medium: Terracotta

Dimensions: H. 10 5/8 × W. 14 3/16 × D. (est.) 9 in., 324.484 oz. (27 × 36 × 22.9 cm, 9.2 kg)

Classification: Ceramics-Sculpture

Credit Line: Musée National du Mali, Bamako (R 88-19-275)


Unearthed in an ancient refuse heap, this is the most imposing of the sculptures recovered at Jenne-jeno. The absence of its head perhaps resulted from an act of deliberate disfigurement prior to the work’s disposal. The androgynous figure’s elite status is reflected in its corpulent physique and elaborate accessories, while its reclining posture is alternately suggestive of consultation or leisure. This work may have been intended to assert indigenous beliefs at a time of social or political stress in Jenne-jeno.


Text from: www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/746377