Figura przodka. Stowarzyszenie Suaga. Mambilia.Nigeria. Brąz.

The Mambilia people live in a territory bordering Nigeria and Cameroon. They have long led a sedentary lifestyle, mainly engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry. The Mambilia community is divided into associations responsible for specific areas of life. The Suaga association is responsible for faith and rituals. There is a widespread belief in ancestors, who are responsible for the wealth and prosperity of the clan. They are also responsible for health, the lack of which is the result of evil forces. Figures that traditionally represented ancestors were placed in the central tent of the village. Women were not allowed to enter. Similarly, they were not allowed to participate in most celebrations. The Mambilia celebrations were mainly related to the seasons and farm work. As a side note, one of the celebrations allowed the unmarried members of the tribe to engage in sexual experimentation.

The figurine on offer is made of bronze. This is very rare among the art of this tribe. The vast majority of masks and ritual figures are made of wood according to a long-established canon. Bronze is absolutely consistent with this. A characteristic heart-shaped face, bent arms and legs, distinct texture. I think the bronze was made in Nigeria, where part of the Mambilia tribe lives and bronze castings are very popular. Another example of the mixing and intermingling of cultures in Africa. I think it is related to the treatment of diseases. It was probably made in the 1960s, because at that time the demand for Mambilia art was very high. Due to its complete absence on the market, products were made to order for African art dealers.

The figurine is 18 cm high, 9 cm wide, and 10 cm deep. It has a beautiful, durable patina.