Figure (1) - Wood - Ekoi - Nigeria

Ekoi couple Wood sculpture of a couple sitting with their backs together. The man holds a staff and the woman is grinding grain in a bowl. Both have horns in the shape of inward volutes. These horns were originally made with the skin of the enemies, and were put at the entrance of the village in order to frighten them. Early 20th century. In perfect condition. From a private collection. A certificate of origin and age is attached. EKOI: Ethnic group of polytheistic religion with animistic connotations, they believe in the spirits of their ancestors. They have a patrilineal organisation and an agricultural economy.