Ancestor Figure Item Number: 2815/19 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Standing female ancestor figure, carved out of wood, red in colour. The face has large eyes, a narrow nose, and a small mouth. On top of the head is a pointed projection. The figure’s neck is very long and thick and is carved with a semi-regular pattern of rectangles. The arms are topped with pointed shoulders, and hands are attached to the hips. The figure is pregnant, shown by a sharp protrusion of the belly. Legs are short and stocky, ending in large blocky feet. A thick milky coating has been applied to the lower outside portion of the feet.

History Of Use

These figures are worn by pregnant women to protect their unborn children, possibly by invoking the protection of female ancestors.