Figure "iphri" ·  Nigeria, Urhobo · ID: 3032574

Description

wood, encrusted matt patina, remains of pigments, human half figure rising from a stool-like base, sun helmet-like headgear, min. dam., minor missing parts through insect caused damage, fissures, on wooden base;
it alludes two distinct aspects of aggression: it inspires a warrior to defend his homeland, but it also controlls an aggressive individual. The use of an “iphri” is nearly an exclusively male phenomenon, women are seen as having neither the problem of uncontrollable aggression nor the need for aggressive powers. It must be fed every four days, otherwise it “gets hungry” and may become troublesome.