Tribal Art

Statue Igbo (N° 14990)

With a high crest, this Igbo figure obeys the guns of the Alusi: depicted standing on half-flexed legs, palms facing the sky. It is supposed to embody the world of the deceased but also the beauty of youth. His body bears body motifs called " uli ". These regional body marks, tattoos and scarifications, indicated the rank achieved in the initiation society. This effigy embodying a guardian deity, intermediate between men and the god named Chukwu was intended to be placed in the obu (Sing.: obi), the men's houses of the Cross River. Characterizing the notables, the wearing of bracelets on the arms and ankles, sculpted in relief, contrast with the patina of white kaolin whose body is folded. The culture Igbo originates from the mythology of the Kingdom Nri of Nigeria, according to which the gods brought to believers palm oil, cassava, and yam-based remedies. These effigies often present symbolic objects, including a mirror in relation to divination. This statue is on the other hand represented with hands ready to receive the ritual offerings and sacrifices ensuring the prosperity of the community, the fertility, and the abundance of harvests.
Epaisse locally peeled crusty patina, restoration of a foot, lacks on the crest, cracks.