About this artwork
Though the Ijo describe forest spirits as hideous and volatile, in sculpture they are rendered as invincible warriors with wide-eyed stares and bare teeth. This elongated figure may have held a weapon in its missing hand. A large medicine gourd hangs from his neck. The white and red pigments applied to its surface symbolize the contrast of coolness and aggression, respectively. Such spirit figures were placed on altars dedicated to clan war gods where rituals were performed.
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Status
- On View, Gallery 137
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Department
- Arts of Africa
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Culture
- Ijo
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Title
- Male Figure
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Place
- Nigeria (Object made in)
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Date
- 1901–1975
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Medium
- Wood, chalk, and pigment
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Dimensions
- 153.7 × 24.1 × 19.1 cm (60 1/2 × 9 1/2 × 7 1/2 in.)
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Credit Line
- Gift of Richard Faletti, the Faletti Family Collection
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Reference Number
- 2000.321
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.