5. IKENGA

Igbo, Nigeria Wood, Pigment H. 19in.

The Ikenga is an Igbo variation of a tradition found among a number of peoples in southeastern Nigeria; it is grounded in the belief that a manÕs power to accomplish things is embodied in his right hand or arm. This male-oriented institution concentrates on a man's skills with tools and weapons, his economic effectiveness, and his ability to win physical contests. Ikenga figures vary greatly in size and formal characteristics; they may be as high as six feet or as small as a few inches. Though always representing a male, the figure may be relatively naturalistic or highly abstract, but always including attributes associated with emblems of prestige and power. The male figure is often depicted holding a sword in his right hand and a trophy head in the left. Sometimes the sword is replaced with a staff of authority. Often the male figure is depicted sitting on a stool, a symbol of prestige associated with the title-taking societies of Igboland. The single most prevalent feature, found on virtually all Ikenga, is a pair of horns projecting from the top of the man's head, an allusion to the aggressive nature of male animals. The stool denotes authority; the stance of the figure and the protecting or curved horns suggest vitality and assertiveness.The stool denotes authority; the stance of the figure and the protecting or curved horns suggest vitality and assertiveness. Periodic offerings are made to one's Ikenga to ensure success in economic and personal undertakings. Many Ikenga also have marks and symbols added to the surfaces, commonly associated with the "Ichi" scarification patterns that are also a sign of title.

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