Tchamba Power Figure: Abstraction and Ritual Tradition from Northern Togo

This authentic ancestral figure represents the Tchamba cult from the border region of Northern Togo and Benin. Within this tradition, the object served as a spiritual focal point for the veneration of specific entities and ancestral spirits. The sculpture stands out due to its powerful, minimalist formal language, characteristic of the West African savanna peoples.

The figure exhibits a layered and encrusted patina, built up through successive ritual acts and libations. This organic layer bears witness to actual use within a tribal context. A key feature is the two cowrie shells incorporated into the face, which function as 'eyes' and symbolically activate the piece for communication with the invisible world. The abstract, cylindrical structure of the torso and the weathered state of the wood confirm the dating and the history of use of the object.

The provenance of this piece is documented; it originates from the collection of Peter Beaujean and was acquired by him in situ in Togo. This provides a clear geographical and historical context for the sculpture, consistent with early field collections from this region.

• Object: Ritual ancestral figure (Tchamba cult)

• People: Tchamba (Tiamba)

• Region: Northern Togo / Northwestern Benin

• Dating: ca. 1930 – 1950

• Material: Hand-carved hardwood, cowrie shells, organic ritual patina

• Length: 39 cm

• Special features: Characteristic encrusted patina and ritual activation

• Provenance: Ex-collection Peter Beaujean, acquired in situ (Togo)

The appraised value of this object is €350 to €550.