Idoma ancestral statues. - Nigeria






Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
Catawiki Buyer Protection
Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details
Trustpilot 4.4 | 144940 reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
Description from the seller
Origin. Nigeria
Tribe name. Idoma
Material. Wood
Size. 68 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24–48 hours
This Idoma female statue (from Nigeria) displays remarkable stylistic and iconographic features:
Main features
Posture and morphology: The statue is depicted in a crouching or bent position, a posture common in traditional African art that conveys concentration, contained strength, or a ritual attitude. Its body is supported by broad feet firmly planted on the ground, with its hands resting on its knees.
Polychromy and contrasting tones: There is a striking visual contrast between the light-colored face (left in the natural wood or given a light patina) and the rest of the body, covered in a dark, aged, and cracked patina.
The face: It has half-closed eyes with heavy lids, a slender nose, and full lips. Traditional geometric scarification marks adorn the cheeks and temples.
Headwear and ornaments: The head is adorned with a structured hairstyle highlighted with red and brown pigments. The body bears scarification marks or raised motifs, including a complex ornamental band around the navel, as well as carved rings around the arms.
Chest: The breasts are prominent and conical, emphasized by raised incisions extending from the neck, accentuating the symbolism associated with fertility and motherhood.
Origin. Nigeria
Tribe name. Idoma
Material. Wood
Size. 68 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24–48 hours
This Idoma female statue (from Nigeria) displays remarkable stylistic and iconographic features:
Main features
Posture and morphology: The statue is depicted in a crouching or bent position, a posture common in traditional African art that conveys concentration, contained strength, or a ritual attitude. Its body is supported by broad feet firmly planted on the ground, with its hands resting on its knees.
Polychromy and contrasting tones: There is a striking visual contrast between the light-colored face (left in the natural wood or given a light patina) and the rest of the body, covered in a dark, aged, and cracked patina.
The face: It has half-closed eyes with heavy lids, a slender nose, and full lips. Traditional geometric scarification marks adorn the cheeks and temples.
Headwear and ornaments: The head is adorned with a structured hairstyle highlighted with red and brown pigments. The body bears scarification marks or raised motifs, including a complex ornamental band around the navel, as well as carved rings around the arms.
Chest: The breasts are prominent and conical, emphasized by raised incisions extending from the neck, accentuating the symbolism associated with fertility and motherhood.
