Western Africa, Nigeria, Middle Benue Valley, Jukun peoples, ca. early 20th century CE. An interesting and large ancestral figure carved from wood. The stylized man stands atop delineated stocky legs which support wide hips. The slender body features shoulders that are symmetrical to the hips, with arms hanging at the sides, and hands resting at the front with incised lines indicating fingers. The face is angular with a pointed chin and a visage comprised of a triangular nose, a miniscule mouth, large drooping ears, earrings, and a conical headdress. Until both Christianity and Islam made their way to Nigeria, the Jukun people traditionally worshipped a set of pagan deities. Wooden figures like this example, were typically built in honor of a passed ancestor, and were an important part of understanding and celebrating the natural processes of life, death, and the spiritual forces which governed both. Size: 7" W x 27" H (17.8 cm x 68.6 cm); 28.5" H (72.4 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Houston, Texas, USA collection, purchased from Matt Scheiner at Gallery Jatad, Houston, Texas, USA in 2015

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#162908

Losses to base, legs, and arms as shown. Old inactive insect holes and cavities. Additional losses and chips to high pointed areas. Cracks and fissures, especially along right arm, with chips and losses along those areas. Light mineral deposits and nice patina to wood.