Jukun ancestor statue - Nigeria
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€ 1
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 240 - € 270
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Description from the seller
Origin. Nigeria
Tribe name. Jukun
Material. Wood
Dimension. 68 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h; open.
This piece is a remarkable example of Jukun statuary (originating from the Benue River valley in Nigeria). These figures, often called baki, occupy a central place in the spiritual and political life of this people.
The Head and the Hair: The most distinctive element is the tall, cylindrical, almost architectural hairstyle. This stylized form is a strong marker of Jukun identity, often symbolizing status or spiritual power.
The Ears: The ears are depicted very prominently, in the shape of volutes or a "C". In African sculpture, exaggeration of the ears often symbolizes wisdom, attentive listening of spirits, or vigilance.
The facial features: The face shows marked verticality. The projection under the chin, which resembles a pointed beard or an extension of the jaw, is a characteristic trait of this type of sculpture, underscoring the gravity and authority of the represented figure.
The Posture: The figure adopts a frontal and static posture. Hands resting on the abdomen (or brought toward the center of the body) emphasize often the link with fertility, lineage, and respect for ancestors. The intentionally altered proportions (head and torso highlighted relative to the limbs) emphasize the sacred nature rather than realism of the work.
Meaning and Function
Ancestral Effigy: These statues are not mere decorative objects. They embody ancestors or protective spirits. They served as intermediaries during rituals aimed at soliciting the community's protection, ensuring good harvests, or resolving social conflicts.
Cultural Context
The Jukun have a complex political history, having been a dominant power in the region (the kingdom of Kwararafa). Their art reflects this hierarchical structure: these statues often served to legitimize the power of chiefs or dignitaries by affirming their direct connection with the founding ancestors.
This is a piece that combines great economy of form with a powerful presence, typical of the aesthetic rigor of the Benue River valley traditions.
Origin. Nigeria
Tribe name. Jukun
Material. Wood
Dimension. 68 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h; open.
This piece is a remarkable example of Jukun statuary (originating from the Benue River valley in Nigeria). These figures, often called baki, occupy a central place in the spiritual and political life of this people.
The Head and the Hair: The most distinctive element is the tall, cylindrical, almost architectural hairstyle. This stylized form is a strong marker of Jukun identity, often symbolizing status or spiritual power.
The Ears: The ears are depicted very prominently, in the shape of volutes or a "C". In African sculpture, exaggeration of the ears often symbolizes wisdom, attentive listening of spirits, or vigilance.
The facial features: The face shows marked verticality. The projection under the chin, which resembles a pointed beard or an extension of the jaw, is a characteristic trait of this type of sculpture, underscoring the gravity and authority of the represented figure.
The Posture: The figure adopts a frontal and static posture. Hands resting on the abdomen (or brought toward the center of the body) emphasize often the link with fertility, lineage, and respect for ancestors. The intentionally altered proportions (head and torso highlighted relative to the limbs) emphasize the sacred nature rather than realism of the work.
Meaning and Function
Ancestral Effigy: These statues are not mere decorative objects. They embody ancestors or protective spirits. They served as intermediaries during rituals aimed at soliciting the community's protection, ensuring good harvests, or resolving social conflicts.
Cultural Context
The Jukun have a complex political history, having been a dominant power in the region (the kingdom of Kwararafa). Their art reflects this hierarchical structure: these statues often served to legitimize the power of chiefs or dignitaries by affirming their direct connection with the founding ancestors.
This is a piece that combines great economy of form with a powerful presence, typical of the aesthetic rigor of the Benue River valley traditions.
Details
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
Nigeria
Period
Late 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Jukun ancestor statue
Height
68 cm
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