176. Ikenga (shrine figure). Igbo peoples (Nigeria). c. 19th to 20th century C.E. Wood.

• Function and Content
  • Ikenga means “strong right arm” and thus physical prowess
  • It honors the right hand, which holds tools or weapons, makes sacrifices, conducts rituals, and alerts to speak at public forums
  • Ikenga embraces traditional masculine associations of strength and potency
  • Often a mix of huma, animal, and abstract forms
  • Carved from hardwoods, considered masculine
  • It tells of the ownerś morality, prosperity, achievements, genealogy, and social rank
• Context
  • Enormous horns symbolize power
  • Requires blessings before use; consecrated with offerings before kinsmen
  • As the man achieves more success, he might commission a more elaborate version
  • It is maintained in the mans's home and is destroyed when the owner dies; another can reuse it if not destroyed