Uden Nyama (fatting house doll), Ibibio, Nigeria
Ebere Society
11” / 27.9cm
wood, pigment
ex Brian Donkersley
I’ve had several of these figures over the years, with a couple of really nice ones, but for me this one is my favorite. I love the volume of the lower body and the simplicity of the face. The top of the elongated legs come up just below the small outstretched hands, and the depth of the thighs along with their gentle curving form is fantastic. A true little gem.
'Uden nyama', fatting house doll given to unmarried girls at time of entering the Ibibio fatting house by their Ebere Society sponsor. They are carried by the girl throughout her time there. The doll symbolizes the beatiful child which the girl will bear once she leaves the fatting house and is married. The doll is believed to promote fertility and is also used by diviners to bring fertility to barren women.
Inquire using the form at the bottom of the page. $500 plus shipping
Click/Tap on any image below to bring up the image viewer.
INQUIRE
If you have questions, requests for high resolution photos, or would like to inquire about purchasing this object please use this form.