Figure Item Number: Af591 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Alusi figure. Standing male with arms slightly raised at sides, while the hands point outward with the palms up. Blackened slits are carved vertically across the forehead and along the cheek side ridges. Ears have protruding centres. Has a large naval that protrudes into a point. From the naval and up along the chest, there is a narrow oval that has arrow carvings within.
History Of Use
Alusi are the founding ancestral guardians of villages and are associated with the earth, rivers and markets. This figure would have been part of a larger ensemble consisting of parents and children similarly related as Igbo families. The upturned open hands represent their generosity and readiness to receive offerings and sacrifices which were made weekly and annually.
Item History
- Made in Nigeria during 1850
- Owned by Tradewind Antiques before January 8, 1986
- Received from Museum of Anthropology Shop Volunteers (Funding source) and Tradewind Antiques (Seller) on January 8, 1986
What
Who
- Culture
- Igbo
- Previous Owner
- Tradewind Antiques
- Received from
- Museum of Anthropology Shop Volunteers (Funding source) and Tradewind Antiques (Seller)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Nigeria
When
- Creation Date
- during 1850
- Ownership Date
- before January 8, 1986
- Acquisition Date
- on January 8, 1986
Other
- Item Classes
- carvings & sculpture
- Condition
- fair
- Current Location
- Case 98
- Accession Number
- 1101/0004