Figure féminine ·  Nigéria, Goemai · ID: 3042461

Description

heavy wood, dark brown patina, remains of pigments, block-like contours, accentuated sexual characteristics, nose-forehead ridge accentuated by cross-shaped incisions, min. dam., cracks, slight traces of abrasion;
carved figures mostly appear in connection with the mens society “kwompten”, whose activities are kept strictly confidential from non-initiates and women. Obviously they were used for healing rites, at which the figures task is to find out the cause of the illness. In return the convalescent has to arrange a feast for the village community and has to sacrifice a goat and millet.