The seller I purchased this carving from thought the figure was a (bald) old woman, but I might think it's a robed monk (?), and that perhaps the large ball in his large hands is a metaphor for the world? Really I have no idea! I do know for sure that it is very old, and quite evocative I think, with this wonderfully expressive, curious round face and these great big hands out front. I think perhaps it was once painted, with the wood now showing darker on the front and lighter on the back of the chair. 

4 5/8" tall x 1 3/4" wide and deep. Very good condition; a few small dings and rough spots here and there, all to the good I think, and adding up to quite a little aura.