A primitive carved wooden shrine idol with stylized form, incised facial features, central crest and traditional zig-zag legs. Such sculptures were considered healing fetish idols known as a "Lagalagana". Mumuye Lagalagana figures were carved by village blacksmiths for use as protective talisman. The idols were kept in sacred enclosures and huts. This type of idol was used in divination ceremonies aimed at healing the sick and preventing epidemics, as well as being regarded as having rain making properties. Mumuye peoples, Nigeria, Africa. The Statue measures 23 inches tall ( 25 inches tall on its professional custom wooden base.) Provenance: Ex Robert Banks collection, Maryland.

fair, well worn