About this artwork
Figurative posts in eastern Africa and on the island of Madagascar most commonly serve as grave sculptures, but they have also been observed on the sites of initiation and spirit possession rituals and of association meetings. This pair represents a male ancestor on the left and a female one on the right. It is unclear whether the parallel rings carved around their necks mimic jewelry or are merely decorative.
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Status
- On View, Gallery 137
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Department
- Arts of Africa
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Culture
- Kwere
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Title
- Figure Posts
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Place
- Tanzania (Object made in)
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Date
- 1901–1975
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Medium
- Wood and kaolin
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Dimensions
- H.: 259.1 cm (102 in.)
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Credit Line
- Purchased with funds provided by Terry E. and Cynthia Perucca
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Reference Number
- 2006.128.1-2