Standing shrine figure "alusi" ·  Nigeria, Igbo · ID: 3038782

Description

wood, brown patina, “ichi” scarification marks in the forehead zone, further tattoos on back and belly, unusual hairdo: disc-shaped flattened bun and two tongue-shaped projections at the back of the head, horn above the forehead, slightly dam., surface structure strongly marked by insect caused damage, missing parts (lower leg on the right, both feet, right ear), fine cracks, rep. (left forearm), metal plate;
these big figures, which often appear in pairs or according to the archetype of a family in a whole group of figures, were kept in sanctuaries or in so-called “m’bari” relaxation rooms for men. They were called “alusi”. Scarification marks and certain attributes specify the rank of the person they represent. This could be venerated ancestors or founding fathers, or deities of the village or the market. For big celebrations they received a new paint and were clothed in typical Igbo costumes.