Standing female ancestor figure · Nigeria, Mumuye · ID: 3039705
not available anymore
Size
H: 70 cm
H: 27.6 inch
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.