Figure, mid 20th century
Igala (?)expand_more
Wood, metal, cowrie shellsexpand_more
The Mary Ruth Weisel Endowment for Africa, Oceania, and the Americasexpand_more 2019.62.15
On View in Gallery 250expand_more
Even though we don’t fully know (yet) what ethnic group this Nigerian figure comes from, or what precise ritual function it fulfilled, we can appreciate its power and beauty. A man holds badges of authority: a fan and a staff or tusk. His face is white after repeated ritual application of pigment, and he wears a necklace of valuable cowrie shells that have become brown over time. He is seated on a simple stool, sculpted on top of an elaborately carved stool that is supported by small figures. The surface of the entire sculpture has a crust formed by decades of ritual offerings.
Details
- Title
- Figure
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2019.62.15
- 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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