Fon Mami Wata Altar Figure, Benin #944 SOLD


Sale price $ 900.00 Regular price $ 1,800.00
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  • Fon Mami Wata Altar Figure, Benin 
  • Beautiful Altar Statue from Benin dedicated to the Water Goddess Mami Wata. She is consulted and worshipped for Her powers. She can help individuals on issues related to Fertility, Wealth, Prosperity, Love and Health.
  • The sculpture is sensitive and smooth, a pleasant and peaceful presence emanates from it. The Rider seems absorbed, their gaze far away. They hold a large umbrella in one hand. A necklace of cowries adorns the neck. The mouth bears traces of Offerings. There are also remnants of kaolin powder.
  • There is a presence in this work. Circa 1960.
  • Measurements: height, 42 cm/ approx 16.5"
  • Condition: Good
  • Mami Wata is known for Her beauty. But She is as seductive as She is dangerous. Those who pay tribute to Her know her as a "Capitalist Deity" because She can bring good (or bad) fortune in the form of money. This relationship between currency and water makes sense. Her persona developed between the 15th and 20th centuries, as Africa became more present in Global Trade. The fact that the name Mami Wata is in "Pidgen English", the language used to facilitate this Trade, shows the influence on foreign cultures on the Spirit's image and identity.
  • Because of these outside influences, Mami Wata takes on many forms. Throughout the exhibit, statues and paintings of the Spirit incorporate Christian Crosses and Hindu Gods. According to guest curator John Drewal, the Spiritual Crossover is no problem with many Africans. "They see it as "multiple Insurance Policies," he says. There are certain requests best suited for Mami Wata, but for everything else, there are the other Deities. - Joseph Caputo, Smithsonian Magazine April 1, 2009