About this artwork
Among the culturally related Baga and Nalu peoples, figures combining bird and human features were the most revered objects in shrines dedicated to protecting kin. The name for one changes according to who is using it, but always means “medicine.” Together with other protective medicines in the shrine, these objects were invested with supernatural powers. On important occasions, bird-human figures are placed upon a man’s head and performed.
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Status
- On View, Gallery 137
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Department
- Arts of Africa
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Culture
- Baga
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Title
- Shrine Figure (a-Tshol, Elëk, or ma-Tshol)
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Place
- Guinea (Object made in)
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Date
- 1875–1925
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Medium
- Wood
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Dimensions
- 58.7 × 26.7 × 80.1 cm (23 1/8 × 10 1/2 × 31 3/4 in.)
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Credit Line
- Purchased with funds provided by Mrs. Chauncey Borland; through prior gift of Mr. Raymond J. Wielgus
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Reference Number
- 1962.474
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.