Rare wrapped Zigua Mummy Figure. Statue. Tanzania. Africa
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The ethnic Zigula/Zigua are from the northern Pwani and southern Tanga Regions of Tanzania. Their art is poorly understood and frequently misidentified.
They have a vibrant tradition of ritual carvings . . . such as their “mummy” figures. Some are wrapped in cloth and coated in a sacred liquid concoction…. some are wrapped and coated with a liquid mixed with clay and earth. The later applies here.
A single piece of hardwood is carved and carefully wrapped with strips of fabric by the village spiritualist or shaman. The layers are then saturated with the liquid/clay substance, as mentioned above. The owner, his family and his crops are now protected from malevolent spirits.
Another rare find for the Serious Collector. Stand is included.