Standing female ancestor figure

Description

wood, partly encrusted blackish-grey patina, traces of white pigment, characteristic posture and form of the body, crested coiffure with massive lobed coiffure, slightly dam., missing parts (both hands, feet), base;
Mumuye figures represent ancestors and cultural heroes thought to be able to control the forces of nature and the affairs of man. They were employed in a variety of contexts. They are associated with jurisdiction, truth telling, healing and rain-making. Accordingly they were kept in the rainmakers house or they were displayed in front of the blacksmiths home.