Standing ancestor figure ·  Nigéria, Mumuye · ID: 3037681

Description

wood, brown patina, incised scarification marks on face and body, accentuated navel, min. dam., fine cracks, slight traces of abrasion, base;
Mumuye effigies have several functions. They reinforce the traditional power of the Elders and grant a priviledged status to the family group who possesses them. The first function of these sculptures is to watch over the family enclosure and to protect its inhabitants as well as guests who are allowed to enter there.