West Africa, Nigeria, Igbo peoples, ca. early to mid 20th century CE. A wonderful carved wooden depiction of a tall, anthropomorphic warrior figure with twin horns curled around its head. This example of an ikenga (or personal shrine figure) stands atop wide-spread legs with a third supporting stool extending from below his posterior. He wears a pleated skirt which displays delineated genitalia, with a tubular body and a thick neck above. Both arms are bent at his sides, one of which holds a large knife, the other a human face mask. In Igbo society, the Ikenga is a ritual object that symbolizes masculine strength as well as the ability to achieve great things using one's own efforts. Figures like these are typically to be placed on or next to a personal altar. Size: 14" H (35.6 cm).

Provenance: ex-Nick Poolos collection, Adeon Gallery, Chicago, Illinois, USA acquired before 1970

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#113582

Age-commensurate surface wear and several stable hairline fissures. Small nicks and losses to chest, feet, face, and horns. Heavy earthen deposits and light mineral deposits throughout.