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MF403 top section of an aloalo, a sacred zebu, 25 x 10 x 20 cm, 560 g. Tulear Region, c. 1950
The aloalo funerary poles are exposed to the wind and the weather, sometimes they can be quite ramshackle and makeshift on the tombs of the Mahafaly. For the most part, these are left alone, emphasising the transience of life. The dry climate preserves the wood for quite a long time, but the elements leave their trace on the sculptures. Rotten or broken stakes are then removed by the family if they still reside there. However, the top section (head) of the statue is important, as a result, it is sometimes held onto or sold. Sometimes, ‘history is rewritten’ by following generations and fragments of the ancestral stelae are cut out, added to or destroyed.
The zebu (omby) forms the livelihood of the graziers in the south, it is the home of spirits and ancestors (Razana). Consequently, the perfect link between life on earth and on the other side. Hence the reason why a place is usually reserved for the zebu on each ancestral stele.
This angular zebu totem is carved in an archaic manner, both horns are still complete, which is rare for these stelae. Usually, they weather quickly, are damaged by birds or break during transit. This is a Menabe brown hardwood, oxidised a light colour, with slight signs of weathering and lichen growth, the base is more heavily affected at the side.
Genuine aloalos are an artistic rarity, because worldwide, the ancestor cult, which originates in Papua New Guinea, only acquired a physical manifestation with these stele in Madagascar. A strict limit has been put on the export of cultural goods / antiques in Madagascar. Some of our old originals have been owned by the family since 1975, with their rising value for collectors, they make a worthwhile investment.

1st half 20th century - Fair 

Totem stele grave stele ancestor figure (1) - Hardwood - AloAlo - Mahafaly - Mahafaly Madagascar 

African Art

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Tribal art and objects

Tribal sculptures statues carvings and figurines

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Material

Wood

Bronze

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Period

Mid 20th century

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1950-1960

1930-1940

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1920-1930

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1st half 20th century

1500-1550

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2nd half 20th century

Subject

Regional interest

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Reference

Tribal art and culture

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African Art

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Totem stele grave stele ancestor figure (1) - Hardwood - AloAlo - Mahafaly - Mahafaly Madagascar

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African Art

This object is no longer available, but there’s still lots to explore

Totem stele grave stele ancestor figure (1) - Hardwood - AloAlo - Mahafaly - Mahafaly Madagascar

Popular in African Art

628 objects

Related collections