Standing female figure ·  Nigeria, Tiv · ID: 3031037

Description

wood, reddish brown patina, rising from a post-like base, incised scarification marks on body and face, slightly dam., crack, insect caused damage backside, base;
most female figures, called “atsuku”, are used in hunting rites and in connection with circumcision. Evidently there is also a symbolic relationship to manhood and virility. Possibly it is in that context that female figures are placed next to the door of an intended bride.

The object Standing female figure with the object ID 3031037 was last part of the auction 77th tribal art auction at June 28, 2014 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 326.

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Comparing literature

Wittmer, Marcilene K. & William Arnett, Three Rivers of Nigeria, Atlanta 1978, p. 96