Lot 594
Striking Pair of Kigango Carved Wood Memorial Posts from Kenya, for the Trade. For the trade and attributed to the Giriama people of the Southern Kenya coast, a pair of carved memorial kigango wood posts (plural vigango). These are not grave markers, but memorials found in huts called kigojo where men gather to meet and converse and also in open fields. The carvings of interlocking patterns and geometric shapes running vertically convey strength and honor for those passed and were often having colors of red, white and black/blue paints or plaster (and bits of fabric) but lose it over time. Vigango were "never awe-inspiring sacred objects. Rather they were seen to have aesthetic and practical value to evoke respect and to be linked in various ways to social and religious life" according to author and gallery owner, Ernie Wolfe III in his book Vigango: Commemorative Sculpture of the Mijikenda of Kenya. Representing two males standing at 59" and 58" respectively and approximately 8" wide, and in age, likely mid-20th Century. Both would make exceptional decor items in office or home given their vertical shapes, distressed condition and incised vertical cutouts. Shipping in the Continental US can be done in house, overseas will require outside shipping. Estimated Value $250 - UP
From The Private Collection of James Harrison Ring.
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| Realized $209 |
