Lot 106
W. African Lobi Wood Male Altar Figure, ex-Klejman
W. African Lobi Wood Male Altar Figure, ex-Klejman
Starting Bid: $750
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West Africa, Ghana, Lobi culture, ca. early 20th century CE. This standing male altar figure, carved from a single piece of wood, embodies the Lobi people's deeply rooted belief in the protective power of spirit-guided sculpture. Upon the advice of a diviner (buor), such figures are commissioned and placed in household or communal shrines to guard against illness, misfortune, and spiritual harm. The figure's form, proportions, and even its gender are determined through divination, each detail prescribed by the spirit whose intervention is sought. The elongated arms, simplified torso, and upright stance speak to the sculptor's adherence to traditional Lobi aesthetics, while the slightly forward-projecting head and alert gaze suggest vigilance toward unseen dangers. Size: 2.9" L x 3.2" W x 10.9" H (7.4 cm x 8.1 cm x 27.7 cm)
According to Lobi practice, the construction of a shrine figure follows a spiritual diagnosis: once the diviner identifies the nature of the threat or imbalance, the spirit prescribes a figure to be carved as a vessel of protection. Upon consecration, it becomes a link between the human world and the invisible forces that govern health, fortune, and destiny. This example reflects the enduring role of such works in mediating between people and the spirit realm, serving both as a physical safeguard and a testament to Lobi artistry.
Exhibited: Allen Memorial Art Museum, Oberlin College, Ohio. "Selections from the Ralph T. Coe Collection of African Art" October 3 to December 15, 2002.
Provenance: Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA, acquired in 2010 via descent; ex-private collection of Ralph T. Coe, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA, purchased in the mid 1960s; ex-J.J. Klejman, New York, New York, USA
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#196117
- Condition: Weathering to surface commensurate with age, as shown, but, otherwise, intact and excellent with rich patina throughout.
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| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |