This is a very fine and rare Old Alusi Shrine idol figure from the Igbo peoples, Nigeria, Africa. A carved wooden figure with tall central crest, accented with a yellow mineral pigment , the face is narrow and stylized, the form is traditional with hands out in a gesture of receiving for the deities and gods the sculpture represents. A very ornate and fantastic example.In all of Igbo country's major regions, shrines were erected to local tutelary deities, as well as to gods. such shrines hosted several of these sculpted figures arranged by a priest to honor the family of deities they represented.The figure measures 32.5 inches tall on professional custom display base. The sculpture has a 21 lb shipping weight.Ex ~ Sotheby's auction, NYC, 1975. Acquired at said auction by the previous owner, a private Virginia Collection.

Good/fair