Figure | alusi

Female protective deity, 20. Jahrhundert

About the object

In its geometric design, the figure appears to have been made from a number of blocks. Such figures can be found in the men's rest houses known as M'bari or in shrines. Up to twenty-five groups of figures, often assembled in families, populate a shrine of this kind. The style of this shrine's design is indicative of the southern group. Typical features are the palms of the hands turned forward, the stylised mop of hair, the elongated neck and the almond-shaped eyes. The open palms are regarded as a sign of the deity's generosity and magnanimity, also as the willingness to accept sacrifices. The gaiters often found in other figures appear here to have fused with the bulbous feet. Author: Michael Schönhuth, Translation: Timothy Connell

The figure represents a local tutelary spirit, an Alusi. It is characterised by the palms of the hands turned outwards, a gesture of generosity and magnanimity. The hair is based on the artistically elevated hairstyle that Igbo women used to wear. Decorative scars on the belly indicate the social status of the woman depicted. These statues, which are up to 1.80 metres high, are attributed to ancestors who were thought to protect the village community. They represent family members, such as spouses and children or neighbours. Assembled in groups, they were kept in the men's rest houses, the M'bari, or in shrines. When conflicts arose, their help was entreated, as they were said to have the ability to settle disputes. At annual dance festivals, they were painted, dressed in the costume of the Igbo and shown in public. Sacrificial offerings were made to bolster the relationship between humans and spirits. Translation: Timothy Connell