ANCESTOR African Statue
NIGERIA
probably an " ISOKO OMA"
crusty used patina so very beautiful
44cm tall
The Isoko live to the SE of the territory inhabited
by the Urhobo, and their art reflects this
association. Their artworks are designed with
apotropaic functions in mind, and are kept on
altars, libated, receive blessings, and are
sporadically paraded about the village. The
pieces have a link to ancestors, but this is rarely
articulated as such, as their works are schematic
and tend to idealise manly (or, sometimes,
womanly) virtues. They are unusual for the
incorporation of elements that seem to reflect
western traditions, notably hats, and it is
probable that these reflect wealth and aspiration,
as they do in other contact-period groups.
Isoko pieces are uncommon and desirable. This is a charming and impressive piece of African art.
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