Lot of two old tribal altar statues- Adan/Ewe - Ghana- 1950-70

In the spiritual cosmos of the Ewe and Ada peoples along the coastal region of Ghana, these abstract Aklama figures embody the intimate connection between humankind and its protective spirits. This specific pair, characterized by a minimalist and powerful expression, originally served as personal talismans on a family altar to ward off misfortune and bring forth prosperity.

What grants these objects their profound museological depth is the weathered sacrificial surface, inextricably linked to a unique annual ritual. Once a year, scattered clans travel together to the sacred Songor lagoon, bringing their altars and figures with them. In the waters of the lagoon, the figures undergo a ceremonial washing to cleanse accumulated negative energy. Following this spiritual reunion, the statues are blessed anew and consecrated with successive layers of kaolin and ochre pigments. The encrusted, layered patina on the left figure bears tangible witness to these successive annual rituals. A rare and authentic ensemble, carefully presented on a custom-made stand crafted specifically for this pair.

Characteristics

● Object: Pair of Ada / Ewe Aklama protective figures on a custom-made stand ● Geographical attribution: Southeast Ghana / Togo (mouth of the Volta River) ● Dating: Mid-20th century (c. 1950 - 1970) ● Dimensions: Height 19.5 cm and 17 cm ● Provenance:  French private collection  ● Material: Hand-carved indigenous softwood ● Patina: Authentic sacrificial patina with layered traces of ritual kaolin (white) and ochre (red) ● Condition: In excellent, tribally used condition with characteristic natural weathering