Mémoire d’Afrique — Ref. 170

Statue — female protective figure with lizard — Toma, Guinea/Liberia — African tribal art — Ref. 170

Photo 1 — Statue — female protective figure with lizard — Toma, Guinea/Liberia — African tribal art — Ref. 170
Photo 2 — Statue — female protective figure with lizard — Toma, Guinea/Liberia — African tribal art — Ref. 170
Photo 3 — Statue — female protective figure with lizard — Toma, Guinea/Liberia — African tribal art — Ref. 170
Photo 4 — Statue — female protective figure with lizard — Toma, Guinea/Liberia — African tribal art — Ref. 170
Photo 5 — Statue — female protective figure with lizard — Toma, Guinea/Liberia — African tribal art — Ref. 170
Photo 6 — Statue — female protective figure with lizard — Toma, Guinea/Liberia — African tribal art — Ref. 170
Photo 7 — Statue — female protective figure with lizard — Toma, Guinea/Liberia — African tribal art — Ref. 170
Photo 8 — Statue — female protective figure with lizard — Toma, Guinea/Liberia — African tribal art — Ref. 170
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Description

Ritual statue of the Toma, or Loma, an ethnic group present in Guinea and Liberia.
Used in protection and fertility rites, it may represent a female ancestral figure associated with spiritual forces.
The lizard carved on the head symbolises regeneration, connection with spirits and the transmission of initiatory knowledge. The seated posture, marked chest and expressive face emphasise its protective and nurturing role.
Dense and old wood, matte patina, stylised body scarifications. Traces of wear and visible cracks testify to prolonged ritual use. Fine sculptural presence, with strong expressiveness in the facial features.

Technical details

Type of piece
Statue
Category
Statues
Ethnic group
Toma
Country
Guinée/Libéria
Materials
wood
Dimensions
H 78 × W 32 × D 28 cm
Weight
19,5 kg
Estimated dating
second half 20th c.
Laboratory test
Not tested
Reference
170