IGALA, Nigeria. - Lot 120

IGALA, Nigeria. Hardwood, brown patina, vestiges of blue pigments. Rectangular ritual mirror with geometrically chiseled outline, topped by a stylized human head with long neck, abstract facial treatment and high crested headdress. The style of facial treatment is characteristic of the sculptor named Umale, from the Iyale workshop in the Dekina district, north of the Igala Kingdom. First half 20th century. H. 45.5 cm. (cracks and small chips). Literature: "Les arts de la Bénoué". Francois NEYT, pages 68 and 69. Provenance: Provenance: Pierre Graindorge-Baron collection, Tours. Reportedly acquired from Mr. Pierre Dartevelle in 2007, at his gallery in Brussels (according to the collector's archives).