Lot 595
Fine Giriama Kigango Wood Memorial Post from Southeastern Kenya with Rounded Head Presented on Custom Lucite Stand. For the trade and attributed to the Giriama people of the Southern Kenya coast, a hand carved, kigango (vigango for plural) memorial post carved from wood. 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. Kigango 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.
This is one is especially striking in that it has three dimensional carving of the head rather than the more commonly seen two dimensional,flat planked posts. Actual piece measures 45 x 6" and includes an exceptional custom lucite presentation stand, giving the sculpture a total of 50" in height. A fine addition to any home or office decor. Piece can be shipped in house within the Continental US however overseas will require outside shipping. Estimated Value $250 - UP
From The Private Collection of James Harrison Ring.
|
| |
| Realized $132 |
