Information
Wood with a natural coating
H 42 cm
Figure holding a vessel.
This represents a female figure who holds a thick wooden vessel in its hands. This is an object of prestige that belonged to one of the Yoruba spiritual leaders. It was kept in a specific place for divinatory practices in the Ifa cult. The thick coating that covers the surface of the wood demonstrates how long it has been used for.
H 42 cm
Figure holding a vessel.
This represents a female figure who holds a thick wooden vessel in its hands. This is an object of prestige that belonged to one of the Yoruba spiritual leaders. It was kept in a specific place for divinatory practices in the Ifa cult. The thick coating that covers the surface of the wood demonstrates how long it has been used for.
Provenance
- Former Paolo Morigi collection (Lugano);
- Former private collection (Lugano);
- Former private collection (Lugano);
Literature
Reproduced in:
- MORIGI PAOLO “Arte Africana: Le Sculture” Galleria Arte Primitiva, Lugano 1975, n° 26;
- FAGG WILLIAM & PEMBERTON JOHN 3rd "Yoruba Sculpture of West Africa" New York 1982, pag. 89, fig. 18;
The image of the woman is one of the subjects which is often depicted in Yoruba sculpture. The female figure places something in the offering cup for one of the gods of the Yoruba pantheon, while praying to them to gain peace and harmony.This female figure wears the great mitre headgear that is typical of Yoruba statues. The face shows great attention to detail and includes the tattoos that are characteristic of this group’s works. The sculptor has given great importance to the thick ritual vessel that the woman holds in her hands.This work, sculpted without finishing touches, is an old interpretation of traditional Yoruba styles.- MORIGI PAOLO “Arte Africana: Le Sculture” Galleria Arte Primitiva, Lugano 1975, n° 26;
- FAGG WILLIAM & PEMBERTON JOHN 3rd "Yoruba Sculpture of West Africa" New York 1982, pag. 89, fig. 18;
Condition report
To request a Condition Report, please contact arteafricana@finarte.it
The department will provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that what Finarte declares with respect to the state of conservation of the objects corresponds only to a qualified opinion and that we are not professional conservators or restorers.
We urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. We always suggest prospective buyers to inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition during the exhibition days as indicated in the catalog.