Carved from a medium density wood with a well-patinated, scorched dark surface, this fine okifa figure displays wonderful sculptural qualities. Okifa figures played an essential role during the initiation of young Mbole men.
Preserved in special huts in the forest, close to the initiates’ bush camp, these figures would have served an educational purpose - as a visual warning. Among the Mbole, the Lilwa Society – in charge of social life and jurisdiction – has the power to impose punishments on those who betray the Society’s secrets.
Ex Jo De Buck Collection, Belgium
Ex Private Collection, Germany
Estimated Period: 1930's - 1940's
References
Kerchache, Jacques, Paudrat, Jean-Louis, Stephen, Lucien, 'Die Kunst des schwarzen Afrika'
Robbins & Nooter, 'African Art in American Collections'
Bacquart, Jean-Baptiste, 'The Tribal Arts of Africa'
ASDDBOO
Price On Request
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