Figurine momie S6019 Zigula statue protectrice officiel rituelle secrète tissu bois Tanzanie

S6019 Zigula Mummy Figure. Protective Statue. Secret rituals. Rare. Wood & Fabric. Pwani. Tanga Regions. Tanzania. Africa.

The Zigula are a Tanzanian ethnic and linguistic people from the northern Pwani and southern Tanga regions. To say their art is poorly understood is an understatement. Their "wrapped mummy” statuary is used in secret rituals that protect their owners from evil spirits and power.

The figure is normally carved from one piece of wood. Then strips of cloth or bark are soaked in a special concoction prepared by the village spiritual leader or shaman. While still wet, the strips are tightly wound around the figure.Once dried, the “evils” are contained within the wooden statue and this protects the owner.

A rare find in this condition. Acquired from an art/antique dealer in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Comes on stand.

I have been a collector for over 60 years and have spent this time searching for the most unique, wonderous and culturally-significant pieces from far off places like Africa, Middle East, South & Southeast Asia, Central & South America and the Oceania Islands. Most were acquired from the country of origin and/or from avid collectors. All that I know about the item - through provenance or my own research - is shown in the listing. It's now time for me to thin out my collection. I am sure you will enjoy this item and its history as much as I have.