Igbo statue - Nigeria

Origin. Nigeria
Tribe name. Igbo
Material. Wood
Dimension. 56 cm
Mode of shipping. Colissimo within 24-48h

This wooden statue attributed to the Igbo (Nigeria) is a complex work rich in iconographic symbols. It depicts an anthropomorphic figure seated on a traditional chair, richly decorated and endowed with attributes of power or prestige.
​Detailed description
​Posture and seating: The main figure is shown sitting on a low stool or carved throne, legs bent and resting on a massive circular base.
​Attributes and held objects:
​In its right hand, it holds a long vertical staff (reminiscent of a command staff or dignitary staff, type of ofo or ritual cane).
​In its left hand, it supports a heavy, curved and massive object, evoking an animal horn shield, a curved blade, or a symbol of strength.
​The neck and polychromy: The figure’s neck is marked by a wide band of bright red color, contrasting with the dark brown patina and the worn rest of the wood.
​The elaborate headdress: The most remarkable element of the statue lies in its monumental and lush headdress. It is overloaded with sculpted figures:
​Heads of masks or stylized characters arranged in a crown.
​Relief motifs evoking spiraling horns or zoomorphic elements.
​A summit dominated by overlapping animal figures (monkeys or fantastical creatures with expressive features, open mouths).
​Patina and wear: The surface of the wood shows an aged patina, marked by cracks, worn areas and traces of residual pigments (notably reds and darks), attesting to its antiquity and ritual or customary use.