Sparsely Detailed Dagari Shrine Figure

The sacrificial patina on this figure is mostly on the side projecting from the wall where it leaned, with the backside more bare. The figure is largely spare of detail, except for a carved belt around its waist, presumably indicating its male status. Some libation drip marks are visible. Dagari shrine figures honor a deceased male ancestor. It is said that in former times, the passing of a Dagari male who had achieved the status of a grandfather required that the eldest grandson should go to the forest and collect a forked tree or branch from which to carve a memorial figure with which to honor him. The figure would be installed in the family shrine and chicken blood, millet beer and other sacrifice offerings would be ritually applied.

31″

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