Seated figure "ikenga" ·  Nigeria, Igbo · ID: 3036456

Description

light brown wood, matt patina, massive body, holding items in his hands, ram horns, big revealed teeth, rest. (left horn), missing parts through insect caused damage (base), cracks,base;
“ikenga” figures are carved on the occasion of the foundation of a house because they symbolize strength and protection. When their owner died the figures were destroyed. The horns are the most important part of the figure, they are related to the god of thunder. “Ikenga” figures are formed variable, they can be carved naturalistic or abstract.