cylindrial post with rounded top; small face at top with metal eyes and large round ears carved in relief; body of post has vertical scalloped design with raised nubs; attached to black metal mount with open base

Post figure, 1900-1950

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In the past, various groups in what is now the Republic of Southern Sudan sculpted memorial posts to honor important ancestors. This highly stylized human figure commemorates a specific individual, most likely a famous hunter, who died in the first part of the 1900s. The cylindrical trunk is incised with geometric motifs that may be related to tattooing and are said to symbolize hunting exploits. The spherical head has a small, heart-shaped face with two metal disks for the eyes. The massive artwork evokes dignity, endurance, and solidity.

Details
Title
Post figure
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2019.3
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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cylindrial post with rounded top; small face at top with metal eyes and large round ears carved in relief; body of post has vertical scalloped design with raised nubs; attached to black metal mount with open base