Standing female figure "jo nyeleni"

Description

wood, blackish brown patina, metal rings (ear and nose ornament), typical design slightly dam., possibly rep. (vertical breakage in whole length), abrasion of paint;
“jo nyeleni” figures belong to the “jo” association. Most “jo” figural sculpture is used by the “numu jo” troop, the blacksmiths initiates. The “nyeleni” figures are either carried by the performers or placed behind them on the ground as a kind of backdrop. “Nyeleni” are said to increase visual interest, punctuating the performance and attracting the audience’s attention. They are “things to look at”. In performance they are adorned with loincloths, jewelry, head ties, or other items borrowed from young women in the village.