Photographs © Tim Hamill
MOBA, TCHITCHERI FIGURE 9, 19", $200, Togo
Moba diviners influence and direct the planning, design and ritual use of tchitcheri figures for family or clan shrines. They are protective and promote health and prosperity. Representing no particular person or ancestor, they are an individual's direct link with God. The figure is reduced to an elemental, symbolic form. Details such as facial features, hands, feet and indications of gender are rare.
Despite its appearance and patina, we believe this figure was probably made to be sold.