Igbo Ikenga statuette, Nigeria - Lot 121

Igbo Ikenga statuette, Nigeria This type of African statue, most often featuring a high horned headdress with complex elements, shows a figure with attributes such as jewelry and scarification marks, seated on a stool. The warrior is brandishing a knife and a human head. Beautifully carved piece. Matt patina. Misses and chips 56 x 16 cm This ethnic group is located in the southern Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The Ikenga is a personal altar belonging to a man. It is the symbol of personal achievement and success (okpossi), the representation of his guardian spirit (chi, vital energy), and the recipient of sacrifices offered periodically or prior to the undertaking of an important action (most often to ifejioku, the yam deity, or ale, the earth goddess). In addition, ike , "power", refers to the force exerted by the right hand in the effort. Closely linked to a secret warrior society, it is also an expression of personal determination (ivri).