Set of Four West African Carved Wood Anthropomorphic Figures

This set consists of four hand-carved wooden sculptures, likely of West African origin (possibly Dogon or Senufo-inspired), each featuring an anthropomorphic figure supporting a vessel or bowl on its head. The figures vary in height, with the tallest being approximately 10-12 inches, and are carved from a dense, dark-grained hardwood. The wood exhibits a blackened or charred patina, possibly achieved through fire-hardening or organic pigments, which has mellowed into a dusty, matte grey-black surface. Each figure displays stylized anatomical features, including elongated limbs and exaggerated facial structures; three depict figures with trunk-like or avian facial protrusions, while the fourth shows a more human-like face with heavy brow ridges. The bases are thick and rounded, decorated with simple geometric incised patterns, matching the carvings on the bowls held aloft. Visible condition issues include surface dust accumulation, minor abrasions common with age, and a significant vertical drying crack (checking) on the base of the far-right figure. The craftsmanship is expressive and rustic, indicative of 20th-century traditional artisanal production for ceremonial or decorative use.