Figure

Item number 2853/3 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

Public

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Data
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Description

Kneeling figure. The head is pointed at top, with protruding ears, prominently carved eyes and eye sockets, a large nose that widens at bottom, and a protruding pointed chin. The back of the neck is carved with four vertical bulges, underneath which are very large, prominent shoulders. The arms are bent and hands touch the face at either side of the mouth, the right hand having three fingers and the left hand having four fingers. A rounded stomach leads down to legs bent into a kneeling position, with feet crossed at ankles in back. The stone of the figure is filled with sparkly inclusions.

History Of Use

Nomoli figures are placed near homes and in crop fields as a form of protection, in the belief that the nomoli will bring good health and good harvests.

Narrative

Marcel Ollivier was the French Consul General posted to Freetown, Sierra Leone, c. 1960s-1970, during which time he purchased this collection of objects (2853/1-9). He later finished his diplomatic service in Vancouver as French Consul General from 1982-1986, after which he retired to England. The objects were donated to MOA at the specific request of Ollivier, via his daughter-in-law.