Africa (part of a set) 1763 - 1767

This porcelain sculpture, “Africa,” is part of a set created by the Nymphenburg Porcelain Manufactory between 1763 and 1767. The figure depicts a black male, nude except for a striped cloth, sitting atop a lion. The sculpture is part of a larger set of figures, likely representing different continents, and exemplifies the Rococo style of the 18th century. It was likely commissioned for a royal collection, given the highly detailed craftsmanship and the depiction of exotic figures. The sculpture is currently on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, NY.