Western Africa, Nigeria, Igbo peoples, ca. early to mid 20th century CE. A hand-carved wooden seated Ikenga Alusi (deity) - an anthropomorphic figure with large, dramatically curled horns, holding a head in his left hand and a large blade in his right, all while seated upon an integral stool. In Igbo society, the Ikenga is a ritual object that symbolizes masculinity, strength, and individual achievements, fitting given how "Igbo" literally means "place of strength." More minimalist forms of these figures are merely comprised of horns projecting from a wooden block, with the horns symbolizing the aggression of the male animal. This is a more realized figure, carved three-dimensionally on all sides, in an animated crouching pose. Size: 10.75" H (27.3 cm).

Provenance: ex-Adeon Gallery, Chicago, Illinois, USA acquired prior to 1970

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#130780

Expected age-commensurate surface wear, losses to chest, legs, horns, blade, and torso, with extensive but inactive insect damage, otherwise very good. Nice earthen deposits throughout.