Set of Four African Tribal Caryatid Figurines

This is a collection of four hand-carved African tribal figurines, likely originating from West Africa, possibly reflecting Dogon or Senufo stylistic influences. Each piece is carved from a single dense, dark wood with a matte, blackened finish that suggests a traditional smoking or charring treatment. The figures serve as caryatids, depicted in a crouched or seated position while supporting large vessels or basins on their heads. The anatomical features are highly stylized and elongated, characteristic of traditional tribal art. Their faces exhibit long, narrow noses and large headdresses that merge into the supported vessels. The bases are thick and rounded with geometric textural markings. In terms of condition, these pieces show signs of significant age and use; there are visible longitudinal cracks (checking) in the wood, particularly on the base of the far-right figure and the torsos of others, which occurs naturally as wood dries over time. Dust and light surface abrasions are present, contributing to an aged patina. The craftsmanship displays deliberate, rhythmic chisel marks, indicating they were artisanally produced rather than mass-manufactured. They likely date from the mid-20th century.