A broad-shouldered figure stands square on thick legs, his arms hanging at his sides with spread fingers and a cast bracelet at each wrist. A ridge runs down the forehead between two small rounded knobs, the eyes are long almond slits, and the ears stand out from a smooth, heavy face. A herringbone pattern is incised down the chest and a twisted cord belt rings the waist. This antique cast brass figure follows the Dan tradition of Liberia and Côte d'Ivoire, where specialist casters made small brass figures and ornaments by the lost-wax method as prestige objects. Warm golden brass shows through at the raised edges, with a darker patina in the recesses and green verdigris at the wrists, face and belt.

At 8 inches tall and with a low, stocky stance, it holds its own on a desk, a shelf, a console or a mantel. Its weight and bold form make it a focal object on a small surface, and it stands alone or next to books and ceramics.

• Era: Antique
• Origin: Liberia and Côte d'Ivoire (Dan style)
• Material: Cast brass
• Size: 4"(W) x 2.5"(D) x 8"(H)
• Color: Golden brass with dark brown patina and green verdigris
• Condition: Wear consistent with age and use, part of its character and historical value. Verdigris at the wrists, face and belt, and a rubbed surface on the raised areas.

This antique Dan style cast brass standing figure has a forehead ridge, almond eyes, a herringbone chest pattern, wrist bracelets and a cord belt. It measures 4 inches wide, 2.5 inches deep and 8 inches tall, in golden brass with dark patina and green verdigris. It suits a desk, shelf, console or mantel.

Q: Why did Dan metalworkers cast small brass figures?
A: In Dan communities, brass was a prestige metal worked by specialist casters, and small figures, bracelets and anklets signaled wealth and standing. They were made by the lost-wax method and kept as personal treasures rather than for public ceremony.

Q: How do you make a small figure with a bold form hold its own on a large shelf?
A: Place it on a stack of books or a small stand so it sits at eye level, and keep other objects a hand's width away. A plain wall behind it lets the strong outline do the work.

**Please bear in mind that colors of products shown may vary slightly from their original color due to monitor display settings or photography studio