Rare Yoruba Fetish Figure. Statue. Wood. Southwestern Nigeria. Africa.
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The Yoruba peoples inhabit a large part of southwestern Nigeria. They have been known to place their trust in the powers of the fetish to assist them during times of need. A fetish – aka Nkisi – is a wood carving that the village shaman (aka Nganga) uses to protect, heal and grant desires to a tribal member or to the entire village.
This particular fetish figure was created to be shown in front of a large audience, like the entire tribe. To be visible to all, this Nkisi was positioned on top of a wooden staff or held high above the shaman’s head. It is carried by the shaman as he enacted his magic and paraded around during the ritual.
The fiber & cloth binding was to bound together the “life” aspect with the “afterlife” of the ceremony.
The cloth-bound torso is very rare. Unique and used for a very special ceremony.
In good condition. For the Serious Collector.
This figure has sold. Thanks C.R. !