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A fine Ga'anda male earthenware spirit vessel browse these categories for related items... All Items: Vintage Arts: Regional Art: African: Sculpture: Pre 1960: item # 909680 Please refer to our stock # N297 when inquiring.
michael cichon tribal arts P.O. Box 5919 Bradenton, FL 34281 941.224.0440 Guest Book $3,200.00 |
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| The Ga'anda people of northeastern Nigeria are one of many groups who make a variety of unique ritual and sacred ceramic effigy vessels. This area of Nigeria, especially within the Gongola Valley, has been relatively ignored by scholars of African art history and anthropology until quite recently. In the past 25 or so years, the richness of their terracotta creations is beginning to reveal the fascinating history of the region. Known as "mbirhlen'nda," these anthropomorphic vessels are viewed as protective receptacles by their owners, the embodiment of the spirit best able to sustain good health, wealth and fortune for them. They were placed in outdoor shrines among rock ledges and crevices or in elevated niches cut into the living rock, where they oversaw the affairs of the community. Our example is a classic one, showing the odd elongated face ending in a large, circular opening. From the side, the human quality of the head can be seen more easily, and were it not for this cantilevered, tubular-snout, the effigy might appear naturalistic instead of otherworldly. Skin diseases, shown by the scale-like protuberances, are said to be inflicted on those who disobey acceptable Ga'anda behavior and morality. "These appliqued pellets serve as reminders that the spirit's tutelage is unconditional, dependent upon adherence to social rules and obligations." (Ceramic Clues: Art History in the Gongola Valley, Marla C. Berns, African Arts, February 1989). In very fine condition with some small losses to the appliques overall and a recent chip to the left side of the mouth edge. otherwise, intact. 14.25" H x 8" W. Mid 20th century. | ||||||||
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