Zemanek-Münster

Couple of shrine figures "alusi"

Nigeria, Igbo
sold EUR 3,200
Provenance
Manfred Schäfer, Ulm, Germany
Size
H: 117 cm resp. 123 cm
H: 46.1 inch resp. 48.4 inch

Description

wood, partly encrusted patina, remains of pigments, male/femal, angled arms, presenting the palms of the hands, both with “ichi” scarifications on the forehead, the female with loincloth and anklet, rep. (breakage at the left foot of the male), fine cracks, traces of insect caused damage, slight traces of abrasion, base;
such figures were used to be kept in ritual houses of communities and families. Once a year they were presented in public. The relationship between man and deity was strengthened by celebration and sacrifices.


Expertise

Karl-Ferdinand Schädler, 03.09.2003, Munich

Comparing literature

Wittmer, Marcilene K. & William Arnett, Three Rivers of Nigeria, Atlanta 1978, p. 15

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