Fragment of a grave post "aloala" ·  Madagascar, Mahafaly · ID: 3035142

Description

light brown wood, matt patina, in form of a stylized bird, min. dam., missing parts through insect caused damage, cracks, traces of weathering, socle;
the most distinctive structures of Madagaskar are massive, case-like tombs of milled and crude stone. They are placed isolated within the landscape, often crowned by a row of up to thirty carved “aloala” posts. Such graves are reserved for kings and dignitaries, big tombs can only be afforded by rich people.

Comparing literature

Beaulieux, Belgium collects African Art, Brüssel 2000, p. 232