A Monumental Igbo Alusi Shrine Idol
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Description
A Tall carved wooden female effigy with incised and raised scar designs, large semi circular ears, facial scars and mineral pigments. The alusi are housed in shrines or ceremonial compounds where they are the subjects of weekly and annual rituals. Hierarchically ranked male and female deities are the largest figures in the shrine with smaller, lesser images representing their children. Alusi’s placement in these devotive locations is a testament to the attention lavished on them. If treated well by their people, alusi bring peace, prosperity, health, abundant crops, and other blessings. When they are offended, though, alusi bring disease and misfortune. Diviners and priests help interpret the wishes of the alusi and perform ritual sacrifices for them. This is a monumental old example that measures 47 inches tall on its wooden display stand. Igbo peoples, Nigeria, Africa. Provenance: A Private New Jersey collection since the 1990's.
Condition
Fair, one arm repaired / re-attached, ear repaired, overall what remains is stable.
Buyer's Premium
- 22%
A Monumental Igbo Alusi Shrine Idol
Estimate $1,000 - $1,500
11 bidders are watching this item.
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Item located in Quakertown, PA, usOffers In-House Shipping
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