Figure

Accession Number
2003/2.47

Title
Figure

Artist(s)
Igbo

Artist Nationality
Igbo (Southern Nigerian style, culture)

Object Creation Date
20th century

Medium & Support
wood

Dimensions
13 1/16 in x 3 in x 3 5/8 in (33.2 cm x 7.7 cm x 9.2 cm)

Credit Line
Gift of Dr. Daniel and Sandra Mato

Subject matter
This shrine figure, called ikenga, embodies Igbo ideas of personal achievements and individuality. These figures usually belonged to men, as their form expressed ideals of masculinity: warfare, aggression, and physical accomplishment. Horns that project from the top of the ikenga signify strength and power, as do the weapons held by many figures. Around the time of marriage men would receive their ikenga and would honor them before undertaking imporant events. 

References Cited: 
Cole, Herbert M. 2013. Visions of Africa: Igbo. Milan: 5 Continents Editions. 

Physical Description
Wooden figure in a standing position surmounted by two conical horns protruding from the top of the head. The legs are triangular in shape while the body is columnar with grooves on the left and right side. The hands in front hold an object that connects to the chin of the figure. 

Primary Object Classification
Wood and Woodcarving

Primary Object Type
figure

Collection Area
African

Rights
If you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit http://umma.umich.edu/request-image for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form. Keywords
ancestors
communication (function)
deities
men (male humans)
personal shrines
power
spirits (beings)

& Author Notes

Web Use Permitted