Jukun ancestor statue - Nigeria
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 210 - € 240
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Description from the seller
Origin. Nigeria
Tribe name. Jukun
Material. Wood
Dimension. 68 cm
Shipping mode. 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.
Head and Hair: The most distinctive element is the tall, cylindrical, almost architectural coiffure. This stylized form is a strong marker of Jukun identity, often symbolizing status or spiritual power.
Ears: The ears are depicted very prominently, in the shape of volutes or a "C". In African statuary, exaggeration of the ears often symbolizes wisdom, attentive listening to the spirits, or vigilance.
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 hallmark of this type of sculpture, emphasizing the gravity and authority of the depicted figure.
Posture: The figure adopts a frontal and static stance. Hands placed on the abdomen (or drawn toward the center of the body) often emphasize the link with fertility, lineage, and respect for ancestors. The deliberately altered proportions (head and trunk emphasized relative to the limbs) underscore the sacred character 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 seeking 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 blends great economy of form with a powerful presence, typical of the aesthetic rigor of the Benue valley traditions.
Origin. Nigeria
Tribe name. Jukun
Material. Wood
Dimension. 68 cm
Shipping mode. 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.
Head and Hair: The most distinctive element is the tall, cylindrical, almost architectural coiffure. This stylized form is a strong marker of Jukun identity, often symbolizing status or spiritual power.
Ears: The ears are depicted very prominently, in the shape of volutes or a "C". In African statuary, exaggeration of the ears often symbolizes wisdom, attentive listening to the spirits, or vigilance.
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 hallmark of this type of sculpture, emphasizing the gravity and authority of the depicted figure.
Posture: The figure adopts a frontal and static stance. Hands placed on the abdomen (or drawn toward the center of the body) often emphasize the link with fertility, lineage, and respect for ancestors. The deliberately altered proportions (head and trunk emphasized relative to the limbs) underscore the sacred character 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 seeking 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 blends great economy of form with a powerful presence, typical of the aesthetic rigor of the Benue 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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