Marionette Figure
ClassificationsSculpture
Culture
Ibibio
Date20th Century
Made AtNigeria, Africa
MediumKaolin, wood, beads, fiber and raffia
Dimensions38 in. (96.5 cm)
Credit LineGift of Dr. and Mrs. Melvin Silverman
Object numberF79.78.1A
DescriptionIbibio figure, Nigeria. Large female figure, arms nailed on and are movable. Natural wood covered by kaolin. Knob-like projections represent the coiffure. Eyebrows and outline of the mouth and breasts have black paint. Carved scarifications down the center of the body from the neck to the female organs and a transfer scarification by the umbilicus. Inlaid glass eyes; hands and feet indicated; a maternal figure carrying a baby with black and red beads around its abdomen. Fiber and chain necklace around its neck. Baby's arms are movable and treatment follows that of the mother. A very unusual and large figure. Wood. Mother, 37"H, baby, 17.5"L.On View
Not on viewCollections
1910-1911
1916-1918
206 BCE - 220 CE
c. 1980