146 - Important pair of ritual figures of the Tauwa type, Chamba, Nigeria.

Important pair of ritual figures of the Tauwa type, Chamba, Nigeria. A remarkable wooden sculpture depicting two standing anthropomorphic figures, joined at the pelvis by an imposing horizontal crossbar adorned with fine vertical incisions. The figures have oval heads topped with small conical crests, powerfully rounded shoulders, arms set apart from the body, and slightly bent legs resting on broad feet. This unique architectural composition, characteristic of certain Chamba creations from the Benue region, is traditionally associated with the protective tauwa figures. Double groups are sometimes interpreted as representing a primordial couple. Beautiful antique dark brown, almost blackish patina, with a matte, grainy surface, showing signs of wear and surface deposits. Bibliography: Richard Fardon and Christine Stelzig, *Column to Volume: Formal Innovation in Chamba Statuary*, 2005, notably p. 43, fig. 4b, and p. 45, fig. 4d. Height: 52 cm