Ibo (or Igbo), Nigeria: a doll (or fertility doll) of the Ibo.
Among the Ibo in south-east Nigeria such representations of children are worn by women in their clothes. As a ‘fertility doll’, to have an especially beautiful child. The same sculptures are, however, also used by children as playthings (as in our culture).
The present, typical ‘Ibo’ doll is carved of light-coloured wood. With a characteristic, high, elaborately crafted hairstyle and ornaments carved out from the same piece. Some pieces broken off to the feet and hands, as well as with small cracks due to age. Good, old shiny patina through protracted use.
Height: 47 cm. First half of the 20th century. (ME)
Provenance: Austrian private collection.
Lit.: ‘Igbo’ by Herbert M. Cole, ill. 26.
Specialist: Erwin Melchardt
Erwin Melchardt
+43-1-515 60-465
erwin.melchardt@dorotheum.at
06.04.2017 - 15:00
- Starting bid:
-
EUR 260.-
Ibo (or Igbo), Nigeria: a doll (or fertility doll) of the Ibo.
Among the Ibo in south-east Nigeria such representations of children are worn by women in their clothes. As a ‘fertility doll’, to have an especially beautiful child. The same sculptures are, however, also used by children as playthings (as in our culture).
The present, typical ‘Ibo’ doll is carved of light-coloured wood. With a characteristic, high, elaborately crafted hairstyle and ornaments carved out from the same piece. Some pieces broken off to the feet and hands, as well as with small cracks due to age. Good, old shiny patina through protracted use.
Height: 47 cm. First half of the 20th century. (ME)
Provenance: Austrian private collection.
Lit.: ‘Igbo’ by Herbert M. Cole, ill. 26.
Specialist: Erwin Melchardt
Erwin Melchardt
+43-1-515 60-465
erwin.melchardt@dorotheum.at
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| Auction: | Tribal Art |
| Auction type: | Saleroom auction |
| Date: | 06.04.2017 - 15:00 |
| Location: | Vienna | Palais Dorotheum |
| Exhibition: | 01.04. - 06.04.2017 |