Lagalagana figure – Wood – Mumuye – Nigeria

Description

Stunning double headed (Janus) 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 100 cm!

Provenance: former private Dutch collection. Custom made stand is included!

For shipping outside EU-zone: Please contact first before order, higher shipping cost may apply due to the size of this item.

Object:

Lagalagana figure

Ethnic group:

Mumuye

Country:

Nigeria

Material:

Wood

Estimated period:

Mid 20th century

Sold with stand:

Yes

Dimensions:

108x17x15 cm

Weight:

4500 gram

Condition:

Good condition, used with some signs of wear

Reserve: $800.00

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $150.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

International: Foreign shipping rates are determined by destination. International shipping may be subject to VAT.

Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.

Location: This item ships from Netherlands

Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.

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Lagalagana figure – Wood – Mumuye – Nigeria

Lot 0331

Estimate $1,000-$1,200May 20, 2026, 12:00 PM EDT

Starting Price

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$600

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