Figure "ikenga" · Nigeria, Igbo · ID: 3038826
Lucien van de Velde, Antwerp, Belgium
Description
wood, encrusted greyish brown patina, highly abstract “ikenga” version, armless cylindrical trunk with burled projections, plate on breast and back, min. dam., small missing parts through insect caused damage, cracks, slight traces of abrasion, base;
The “ikenga” symbolizes the Igbo adult male’s aggressiveness and drive to achievement and success. Before undertaking a venture requiring economic skills or physical prowess the owner makes sacrificial offerings to the “ikenga”, which embodies the spirit of the owner’ s hand. This act of worship assures him the power to accomplish his goal. He also may make sacrifices in gratitude for past success. “Ikenga” sculptures are found in a wide variety of styles, the size and form usually an indication of the status of the owner.
The object Figure “ikenga” with the object ID 3038826 was last part of the auction 80th Tribal Art Auction at June 27, 2015 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house. The object with the lot number 341 achieved a sales price of EUR 3,000.
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Comparing literature
Wittmer, Marcilene K. & William Arnett, Three Rivers of Nigeria, Atlanta 1978, p. 6 f.