Figure Representing Ugonachonma (The Eagle Seeks Out Beauty)

Origin: Igbo Tribe, Nigeria
Composition: wood, pigment dyes (including kaolin, indigo, and red ochre), glass, natural materials

One of the most important wooden pieces in the collection, this very old figure has significant evidence of age and use consistent with the ritual utilty the piece has within its tribal cultural context. This piece is from the central Igobo region and represents Ugonachonma (translated as “The Eagle Seeks Out Beauty”). It possesses a sophisticated, attractive coiffure (with reflective mirroed-glass inserts common to young women of marrying age from wealthy families) and a long neck (considered a feature of a beautiful young woman), with scarification (also for beauty). The white pigment on the legs is thought to “exaggerate the Igbo preference for light-colored skin and evokes the practice of washing dark skin with a chalky solution to create a contrasting ground for indigo uli patterns.”

Following in the background given on this piece, “Ugonachonma served as centerpieces for largely secular-age grade dances”. Young, beautiful maidens are thought to be associated with eagles, as the maidens are praised as “eagle’s kola” after the prized kola nut shared at Igbo ceremonies (Visona, A History of Art In Africa, p. 289).

The Igbo occupy the present east central state of Nigeria and parts of the present mid-western state. The Igbo speak a common language, but with different dialects. Most Igbo traditionally live in scattered villages, which form the basic social units, cosmologically, they believe in the existence of the Supreme Being whom they call Chuku or Chineke. There are other minor deities under him, Anyanwu (The Sun), Iwa (The Sky) Ale (The Earth). Ale, the most important minor deity, is connected with ancestors-Noiche and Ajoku, the divinity associated with Yams. The ancestors usually appear as masked dancers (Mmuo) who dance during festivals and funerals. (Reference: Lois Woods Museum)

Please contact us to inquire about this piece at (415) 362-6601 or info@sujaro.com.