A rare carved wood altar figure

Description:

Yoruba, Nigeria
H. 50 cm
Wood with polychrome surface. A figure standing on a circular plinth, with a head carved in a stylistically characteristic manner and scarification marks on the cheek and forehead, a tall hairstyle of dense plaited rows, and an unusual garment made of colourful points that resembles ceremonial attire of the “Egungun” cult and completely envelops the body, making the gender difficult to determine; apron-like at the front and damaged there, suggesting originally additional elements. A rare collector’s piece.
From the collection of Helmut Zake (1918-1995), Heidelberg, German historian and founder of the Society for Ethnology and Tribal Art, inherited within the family - Partly slightly chipped and some wear due to age, traces of insect damage