Lagalagana figure – Wood – Mumuye – Nigeria

Stunning Lagalagana figure from the Mumuye tribe of Nigeria. Living on the left bank of the Benue River, the 400,000 Mumuye people intensively farm an area of plains. Mumuye artists are famous for their wooden statues known as Lagalagana. These figures vary from 30 to 160 cm in height and display elongated features and exaggerated ear lobes. Carved by blacksmith or weavers, they are kept in a separate hut located on a family compound, and are entrusted to the family member who has magical powers. The Lagalagana have divination, apotrapaic and rain making functions, and serve as prestige objects. This large figure has a total length of 85 cm! Provenance: former private collection from Germany. Custom made stand is included!  

Object:	Lagalagana figure
Ethnic group:	Mumuye
Country:	Nigiria
Material:	Wood
Estimated period:	Mid 20th century
Sold with stand:	Yes
Dimensions:	85x12x12 cm
Weight:	3900 gram
Condition:	Good condition, used with some signs of wear