A very elongated and stylized wooden sculpture known as a "Iagalagana" and considered a powerful healing idol. This is a highly stylized effigy with a wonderfully exaggerated form and incised linear designs. The figure measures 20 inches tall ( 22.5 inches tall on its professional custom display stand) It was not until the 1960's that one of these figures was seen in situ, and their traditional use was unknown. Only one traveler saw them used in context and according to field notes some were used as oracles, others in connection with healing, and still others reinforced the status of important elders as embodiments of vaguely conceived tutelary spirits. Sometimes, one figure was employed in two or more of these capacities. Mumuye peoples, Nigeria. Provenance: Ex Michael Rhodes African Art Gallery, New York.

Good, well handled