Lot A103 - Pair of Puppet Figures

Pair of Puppet Figures

Ekoi (Ejagham) people, Nigeria / Cameroon

Height: 25 cm

Pair of carved wooden bust figures with stylized heads, almond-shaped eyes, and protruding lips. Each figure shows lateral openings in the torso, likely for attachment to rods or internal puppet mechanisms.

The dark surface shows traces of blackened coating and wear from use. Such figures were associated with Ekoi puppet theatre and ritual performances, where articulated figures represented spirits, ancestors, or social characters.

Dark patina with heavy age wear and losses. 20th century.