Figure d´ancêtre assis "iene"

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Description

wood, dark brown patina, strongly encrusted in parts, typical seated posture, wing-shaped headdress, slightly dam. (arms), missing parts (both shanks/headdress).
Figures “iene” were carved shortly after a person’s death to serve as a receptacle for the departed spirit. To attract the soul, the “iene” were placed on a gold plate, and wrapped in red cloth. Honoured with offerings of food and prayers, “iene” bridged the spirit world and the realm of the living.

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Littérature comparée

Barbier, Jean Paul & D. Newton (ed.), Islands and Ancestors, Munich 1988, p. 316

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