Lagalagana Figure
Mumuye, Nigeria
Early 20th c
Provenance: Newark Museum of Art, New Jersey, Accession number painted in white, “ X94.2”
The Mumuye live near the banks of the Benue River in eastern Nigeria. They used sculptures called Lagalagana in different rituals: the figures played a central role in ancestor worship and served as interceptors between the spirit world and that of men. This figure has angular legs and ribbon-like arms that wrap around the torso with its elbows clearly marked. The head displays a coiffure in the form of a crest. The scarification on its face is delineated and the nasal septum is perforated for the insertion of a short section of a stalk of Guinea corn. Both scarification and nasal septum ornamentation reflect local custom. Its slightly tipping torso, animated arms and body and elongated earlobes; are some of the other notable features which exemplifies what is most compelling about Mumuye art. The patina is deep and rich from handling.
Lagalagana Figure
Mumuye, Nigeria
Early 20th c
Provenance: Newark Museum of Art, New Jersey, Accession number painted in white, “ X94.2”
The Mumuye live near the banks of the Benue River in eastern Nigeria. They used sculptures called Lagalagana in different rituals: the figures played a central role in ancestor worship and served as interceptors between the spirit world and that of men. This figure has angular legs and ribbon-like arms that wrap around the torso with its elbows clearly marked. The head displays a coiffure in the form of a crest. The scarification on its face is delineated and the nasal septum is perforated for the insertion of a short section of a stalk of Guinea corn. Both scarification and nasal septum ornamentation reflect local custom. Its slightly tipping torso, animated arms and body and elongated earlobes; are some of the other notable features which exemplifies what is most compelling about Mumuye art. The patina is deep and rich from handling.