Figure

Item number 3055/14 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

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Description

Carved wooden ikenga figure resting on a round base. Head is perched on a stylized pillar consisting of 3 thin bars. Straight central pillar is surrounded by 1 rounded pillar and 2 triangular ones. Oval head is minimally carved with protruding forehead, nose, and chin. A carved garland decorates both sides of chin. Short intricate headdress constructed from a thin main bar decorated with 2 half crescents carved with diagonal lines on top, and 2 curved bands carved with horizontal lines hanging below. 3 small round bolts protrude from the front and back of the main bar.

History Of Use

Ikenga (literally "strength of movement") is a horned spirit and one of the most powerful symbols for the Igbo people. Although taking on different forms, the figures always have a pair of ram’s horns, representing the animal’s strength and fortitude, characteristics like power, achievement and upward mobility, valued by men who regularly invoke them for success.