Igbo (Ibo), Nigeria

Ikenga Figure. The name derives from I-ke, meaning “strength” or “power”; thus, ikenga means “place of strength.” These statues include horns, identified as the horns of a ram, who “fights with his head” – hence is symbolic of aggression, and perseverance. Since the ram rarely fights, he therefore symbolizes self-control and determination to the Igbo. In Igbo society there is strong social pressure toward individual distinction, and men can move upward through successive grades by demonstrating their achievements and their generosity. One of the traditional representations of this was the ikenga, that part of oneself enabling personal achievement, with cult figures representing the attributes of distinction. Young men acquire an ikenga at various ages, but they all own one of them by the time they get married and settle down. To the Igbo the ikenga statue embodied a protective spirit for success, for achievement, a well-known motivating force among the Igbo. It was also considered a house-protective statue and consulted before undertaking a new enterprise, before going on a journey or hunting, or in general for good luck. It was placed on the house altar.

Material:  wood

Size: H. 24”, W. 7½”, D. 5½”

Price: $245+$28 (S&H)                                                           [#G6I6S965]