Oracle bowl from the Ibo spectrum, Nigeria, ca 1980

Beautiful decorative bowl in the generic style from the central southern region of Nigeria. To be referred to as Iba spectrum. Finely carved head with mohawk on top, symbolizing strength. Both the neck and the shell itself are decorated with geometrical figures. Objects like this were used by a nganga, a kind of shaman, for consultation and predictions. It was then often used as a medium in contact with the ancestors or in solving problems. Good condition, see the photos!

Height: 69 cm
Width: 22 cm
Weight: 2040 grams
Origin: Nigeria
Date: circa 1980
Provenance: Ex-Peter Beaujean