Description

Introduce an imposing structural masterpiece and exceptional West African history to your gallery collection with this large 3.5-foot (106 cm) vintage hand-carved wood shrine figure, masterfully sculpted by the traditional carvers of Nigeria.

Historically deployed on sacred ancestral altars or within royal display courts, statues depicting ceremonial figures smoking long prestige pipes function as spiritual conduits, symbolizing the transmission of prayers to the ancestor realm through sacred smoke. This exceptional example features a seated figure meticulously holding a long, cross-hatched ceremonial pipe that arches straight into an open mouth, terminating below into an integrated circular bowl vessel resting on a dome pedestal.

The entire hardwood surface is heavily detailed with an authentic, chalky white kaolin clay wash, sharply contrasted by deep charcoal-stained prestige bracelets, anklets, and a heavy ringed collar. The face, shoulders, and arms are beautifully covered in complex hand-carved geometric scarification panels, crowned by a high vertical crescent hair finial. Boasting a rich, beautifully dry vintage patina, this large-scale carving stands as a premier acquisition for any serious collector of African art.

Shipping & Care Instructions

Shipping & Handling Particulars

Due to the age, size, and delicate nature of this 24-inch artifact’s mixed-media elements (including fragile organic fibers, leather, and horn attachments), this piece will be professionally packed. It is double-boxed and surrounded by custom cushioning to ensure absolute safety during transit. Full insurance and tracking are included with shipment.

Care & Preservation Guidelines

To preserve the beautiful, authentic vintage patina and structural integrity of this mid-century Lobi piece, please observe the following care instructions:

Display Location: Keep the sculpture out of direct, intense sunlight to prevent the aged hardwood from fading or developing deeper stress fractures.
Climate Control: Place the statue away from direct paths of heating vents, air conditioners, or humidifiers. Drastic shifts in humidity can dry out or distort vintage organic cords and leather attachments.
Cleaning: Do not apply any chemical cleaners, liquid polishes, or water to the surface. To clean, simply use a soft, entirely dry microfiber cloth or a delicate brush to gently clear away dust from the wood crevices and mixed-media ornaments.

Additional information

Region	West Africa
Culture	Lobi People
Origin	Burkina Faso, West Africa
Estimated Period	Mid-20th Century (Circa 1950s–1970s)
Material	Carved Hardwood, Animal Horn, Glass Trade Beads, Leather, Fiber Cord
Height	24 inches (61 cm)
Condition	Excellent vintage condition. Wood shows beautiful natural aging and minor stable cracks consistent with genuine ritual use. All mixed-media attachments are structurally intact.