Terracotta Seated Couple from Mali in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, February 2020

Title: Seated Couple

Date: 12th–16th century

Geography: Mali, Inland Niger Delta

Culture: Middle Niger civilization

Medium: Terracotta

Dimensions: H. 10 1/16 × W. (approx.) 5 × D. (approx.) 10 in. (25.5 × 12.7 × 25.4 cm)

Classification: Ceramics-Sculpture

Credit Line: Private collection


Middle Niger figurative representations feature a diverse cast of protagonists, from committed couples to the striking personage of a kneeling male. Many of these figures assume recumbent, prostrate, or upward-gazing postures. Gestures of arms crossed against the chest or covering the face suggest attitudes of prayer.

Text from: www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/736498