Eket Female With Bird Figure On Custom Stand Nigeria

Thousands of naturalistic, self-images crafted by the Eket people for use in the Ekpo society have become a significant part of indigenous art in Nigeria. This sculpture is an intricate carving, portraying both beauty and spirit.

The Eket, a sub-group of the Ibibio with an estimated population of 1,000,000, reside to the west of the Ibibio community near the Cross River. Similar to other cultures in the region, they have a wide range of cults and rituals, with the "Ekpo" society serving as the primary authority for societal and ceremonial affairs. They are known for their export of palm oil and rely mainly on agriculture, in contrast to their neighboring Ekoi community which relies on fishing. 

Ibibio religion appeases ancestors for protection and blessings. House heads are the most influential ancestors. Offerings and observing kinship norms are important to please them. The Ogbom ceremony is performed to honor the earth deity Ala and promote fertility and abundance.

Festivals are held to commemorate the harvest, with a focus on crops such as yams. Traditional headdresses, like the one pictured here, are used in these celebrations to honor the spirits that bring fertility and prosperity to humans, animals, and plants. These headdresses are also seen in the annual ceremonies of the Ogbom cult, though little is known about this group.

Length (in): 25.0
Width (in): 7.0
Depth (in): 7.0

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