Losso anthropomorphic figure - Figura - losso - losso - Togo

This large hardwood figure displays a Phallic Form with simple facial features descending to very large and imposing trunk with a cylindrical appearance and a protruding navel. The trunk features a beautifully engraved "sunburst" of engraved scarification radiating in all directions. Traditionally these Figures have small, powerful "chevron" shaped legs resting on an integrated platform base. Arms are nonexistent and rarely expressed.
Losso Art has a Cubist appearance, and now prized by lovers of Minimalist, Abstract Art.
Often the Worship and Devotion paid to these statues were done in front of the doors of Village Houses. The Statuaries were Enshrined in front of the Houses and sometimes stationed in their Granaries or even in Hen Houses. These Figures were believed to ensure the Protection, Fertility, Prosperity and Good Fortune for those dwelling within.
Losso Peoples are are an Ethnic and linguistic Group living in the Doufelgou District (Préfecture) of the Kara Region in Northern Togo, West Africa. They are neighbors to Ewé, Kabiès, and Ouatchi Ethnic Groups. Mainly living from agriculture and hunting.

Provenance: Jean Michel Huguenin, Paris