Statue for male aggression "iphri"

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Description

wood, kaolin, rest.

A stylistically close work, possibly from the same workshop, illustrated in Wittmer, 1978, ill. 100.

The spirit of the “iphri” is symbolized by the abstract beast with wide open teeth-revealing snout. To gain its support the “iphri” must be ritually fed every four days. For if this is neglected out of carelessness, it could become “hungry” and perhaps cause trouble. Most commonly offered were chalk (“oorhe”), cola nuts (“evwe”) and gin (“udi”).

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Comparing literature

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

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