**Originally Listed At $250**

Western Africa, Nigeria, Isoko peoples, ca. early to mid 20th century CE. An interesting carved wood figure known as an "Oma" with a slender body, planar shoulders, a slight distended abdomen, and a conical skirt. The tubular head displays almond-shaped eyes, a broad nose, cupped ears, and several bared teeth, all beneath a bulb-shaped coiffure. The surface exhibits chalky-white kaolin coloration, and remnants of dark-red and orange pigments are visible on the arms and verso. The Isoko reside in the southeast of a region also inhabited by the Urhobo peoples and consequently, their visual art bears a resemblance to that of the Urhobo. The vast majority of their art has been created to serve an apotropaic function - typically kept upon altars, imbued with libations, blessed, and sometimes paraded through the village. Works like this example are linked to their ancestors, but rarely in a specific manner. Instead their sculptural pieces tend to idealize feminine or masculine virtues. Comes with custom wooden display stand. Size: 7.5" H (19 cm); 10.25" H (26 cm) on included custom stand.

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

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#130693

Age-commensurate surface wear, loss to one arm and both legs, small chips to body, ears, and head, otherwise very good.