Power figure, c. 1900
Songyeexpand_more
Wood, horn, brass tacks, metalwork, glass beads, fiberexpand_more
The John R. Van Derlip Fundexpand_more 89.59a-d
Not on Viewexpand_more
In a small house at the edge of a Songye village, a ritual expert would have kept a large power figure. Contrary to the much smaller personal power figures, these communally owned ones were invoked for general welfare and protection against illness, sorcery, and war. The three horns atop this figure’s head once contained substances that enhanced its mystical power. When impending danger was sensed, two men would carry the figure through the village to ward off evil, holding it with wooden poles passed under its armpits.
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- Title
- Power figure
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- Accession Number
- 89.59a-d
- 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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