fetish figure - Bochio - Fon - Benin

Bocchios are guardian figures that serve to attract evil and keep it away from people and communities like a lightning rod. Their protective effect is enhanced by the use of magical substances and the offering of sacrifices.
The present figure is made of wood and decorated with magical accompanying objects such as shells, bird skulls, and animal bones around the abdomen. These are bound together with plant fiber cords and covered with thick layers of a clay-like substance. The figure was embedded deep into the ground and likely served to protect a house or an entire village.