Shrine figure, c. 1900-1925, 32 3/16 x 7 7/8 x 7 7/8 in. ( x 20 x 20 cm) (including attached base), Wood, cowrie shells, string, Nigeria, 20th century, Throughout the 20th century, the Igbo people kept shrines with large wooden figures representing village deities, who offered protection and prosperity to the community. Like this female example, the figures have elaborate hairdos, scarification on their faces, chests, and backs, and wear carved ornaments on their arms and legs—all marks of beauty and high rank in traditional Igbo society.

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Size: 4536px × 6866px
Location:
Photo credit: © Penta Springs / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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