Shrine Figure Headdress, 19th century. Unknown artist (Guinea, Baga peoples). Wood and brass-coated ferrous tacks. Purchase: William Rockhill Nelson Trust through the George H. and Elizabeth O. Davis Fund.
Shrine figures, such as this example, which combine a head with human features, a long neck inserted into an elder's stool and a bird-like beak are called A-Tshol. The reference to birds may refer to their role as spiritual messengers. A-Tshol represent a powerful supernatural being often identified with the supreme creator-god and the civilizing forces of agriculture. They are housed in clan shrines and are ritually "fed" by applying palm oil to their surfaces (seen here exuding from this heavily oiled sculpture). On important ritual occasions, the figures are displayed upon the head of a dancer whose movements are supernaturally directed by the A-Tshol.
