Standing figure ·  Nigéria, Mumuye · ID: 3034495

Description

wood, spotted greyish brown patina, crude forms, accentuated navel and Adam’s apple, eyes on top, slightly dam. (snout, hands), paint rubbed off (back of the head), crack (left side of the head), traces of insect caused damage (right foot), socle;
figures of the Mumuye are usually known for their small heads and their unbelievably variegated hair or cap styles. The head of present figure unusually shows the form of a buffalo mask. Figures of the Mumuye were used variously: as oracles, others in connection with healing, and still others reinforced the status of important elders as embodiments of vaguely conceived tutelary spirits.