Big standing figure ·  Nigéria, Mumuye · ID: 3032630

Description

wood, greyish brown patina, traces of black and white paint, curved body with elongated limbs and neck, small head with high towering crest and short lobes aside, traces of insect caused damage (left upper leg), cracks, rep. (left arm ?), mounted on acrylic base;
Mumuye figures represent various ancestors and cultural heroes who are thought to be able to control the forces of nature and the affairs of man. Like many other Benue figures, the sex is indistinguishable. They were employed in a variety of contexts. They are associated with dispensation of justice, truth telling, healing and rain-making. Accordingly they were kept in the rainmakers house or they were displayed in front of the blacksmiths home.