Magic figure ''bocio'', Benin (Kingdom of Dahomey),... Lot 48

Magic figure ''bocio'', Benin (Kingdom of Dahomey), Fon. Anthropomorphic figure with two heads in standing posture, on tapering base. Rectangular abdomen and round chest opening empty. Trimmed with cowries and cotton fabric strips, black crusty attachments (palm oil). With proof of purchase Galerie Vajra Sarl Paris 2004. with metal base. H. 50,5 cm. The top of this type of figure is usually metal-sheathed to be rammed into the ground in front of a shrine with offerings. Bocio represent powerful magical objects in the vodoo cult and are used to ward off bad luck. They protect their owner from misfortune and inflict it on his enemy. Provenance: Peer Hultberg Collection (1935-2007), Hamburg. Galerie Vajra Sarl Paris Fon bocio with janus head, Fon people/ Benin/ Dahomey. Wood, carved, kauri shells, cotton stripes. Blackish adherences. Comes with metal stand. Original receipt Vjara Sarl, Paris 2004. Collection Peer Hultberg (1935-2007), Hamburg. H. 50,5 cm