Special Igbo Altar Statue: Fertility Figure with Unique Duality

This 47 cm high Igbo altar figure, carved from a single piece of wood, is a rare and intriguing example of traditional African art. The sculpture depicts two joined figures with a powerful, grounded presence. The rich, encrusted patina and traces of white, red, and black pigment testify to long-term and profound ritual use. The remnants of blue pigment emphasize the spiritual character of this figure.

What truly makes this piece unique is the complex iconography of the figures. What at first glance appear to be two female figures, upon closer inspection reveal a fascinating union of male and female traits. The breasts and the subtly carved phallus symbolize the cosmic balance between creative forces – the female principle of fertility and the male principle of strength.

This profound duality is a core concept in Igbo cosmology. The incisions on the bodies are traditional uli designs, an art form that further emphasizes the fertility and feminine energy of the piece.

This figure was originally acquired in situ by Peter Beaujean. As the driving force behind Gallery Tounkara, Beaujean built one of the largest private collections of African art in the Netherlands.

See the photos for its condition, which is overall good. A shrinkage crack in the round base and signs of age and use are present.

Features:

• Height: 48 cm

• Circumference at base: approx. 78 cm

• Weight: 2615 grams

• Origin: Nigeria

• Dating: ca. 1970

• Provenance: Ex Peter Beaujean