Artwork Page for Shrine Figure (Ikenga)

Details / Information for Shrine Figure (Ikenga)

Shrine Figure (Ikenga)

possibly early 1900s

Africa, West Africa, Nigeria, Igbo carver

Medium
Wood, organic materials, and raffia
Measurements
Overall: 74.5 x 18 x 20 cm (29 5/16 x 7 1/16 x 7 7/8 in.)
Credit Line
Severance and Greta Millikin Purchase Fund 2015.72
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print
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Did You Know?

This figure associated with achievement and success would have received prayers and sacrifices in return for the guidance of ancestors.

Description

This seated figure of a man holding a cutlass and an inverted human skull is a cult object called ikenga, associated with achievement and success. Standing at the center of a man’s personal shrine, the sculpture receives prayers and sacrifices in return for the ancestors’ guidance. An elaborate headdress comprising two horn-like extensions reinforces the cult’s preoccupation with masculinity, while facial incisions known as ichi refer to membership in one of many male associations.
Wood sculpture with orange undertones wearing a wrap of four ruffled layers around their waist. They hold their arms by their sides at a ninety-degree angle, a thick, squat knife in their right and an upside down face in the left. The figure's mouth widens to bared teeth with two horn-like extensions protruding from their head, the horns curving in on themselves. Rows of three rounded cones line either side of the figure's face.

Shrine Figure (Ikenga)

possibly early 1900s

Africa, West Africa, Nigeria, Igbo carver

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