Nupe Bed Post Nigeria Pearson Collection

An abstract post or bed support from the Nupe. This post may have been used as one of four bed net supports found in most of West African traditional houses. If truly a post this was placed in the ground and used as ceremonial carvings.

The Nupe people, with a population of around 500,000, inhabit the region near the Niger and Kaduna Rivers in Nigeria. Despite their geographic proximity to the Hausa people, they have distinct language and cultural traditions. Influenced by Islam for over 250 years, Nupe art has adapted, focusing on intricate geometric designs due to Islamic prohibitions on human depictions. Despite these constraints, Nupe artisans produce visually stunning objects valued by collectors. Historically subject to the rule of the Igalas and influenced by the Kingdom of Benin, Nupe mythology reflects their complex relationships and historical subjugation. Overall, the Nupe possess a rich cultural heritage and artistic tradition, showcasing their adaptability and resilience in the face of social and religious constraints.

From the Collection of Dr. Robert Pearson, Denver, Colorado

Dr. Bob Pearson began collecting African art later in his life. He was an engineer, inveterate climber, and long-time collector of books and paintings. Spurred by the Douglas Society at the Denver Museum of Art, and his friendship with noted collector George Heggarty, he began building an enormous, eclectic collection. His African art library grew to several hundred books. He loved textiles and material culture things, which had domestic use, like spoons, cups, stools, and chairs, as well as masks and carvings. His collection included items from more than thirty African countries, and his fine eye gave him pieces ranging from a golddust scale to huge Dogon figural ladders. Africa Direct is honored to have been chosen to sell them.

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