Reference Prof. Herbert Cole: IGBO Ikenga 32c m high. The height of this ikenga shrine/altar suggests that it was commissioned by a mature man who had progressed three to four grades (out of seven in most places). This is typical in the Ozo title society in the north-central zone of Igbo territory, from which most ikenga of style originate. It is of the “classic” naturalistic type, a seated man with horns sprouting from his head. A large knife (locally called a “cutlass”), is held in his right hand, and a trophy head is held in his left hand. Sacrifices are made to ikenga altars by devout men, at least once every four days as well as before important events in a man’s life such as a long journey, a land dispute or problems with family members. The ikenga is meant to protect its owner and guide him toward material and social success, including the taking of higher title, a fruitful harvest, and marrying a second wife. When successful, a man will thank his ikenga with an offering, such as a chicken or a goat. It appears that in the past, a man who prayed and sacrificed to insure success had only failure in life might destroy his ikenga for letting him down. In much earlier times, the warrior returned from battle with a trophy head, his evidence of success, the very trophy head carried jn the left hand of the ikenga image. The Igbo are highly competitive people, but no longer take the heads of their enemies, only their money! See Cole and Aniakor 1984: 24–34, cole 2013: 24–28.

Provenance:
Ex collection Serge Trullu, Nizza.
Austrian private collection. (VJ)