Protective Figure (Bocio)
Artist/Maker
Fon people
Benin
Date20th century
CultureFon
Mediumwood, cotton, iron, cowrie shells, plant fiber, accumulative material and encrustation
DimensionsOverall: 9 x 3 3/4 x 4 1/2 in. (22.9 x 9.5 x 11.4 cm)
ClassificationsVisual Works
Credit LineGift of Alan Potamkin
Terms
Object number2007.48.53
On View
On viewCollections
DescriptionBocio are prescribed as protective images for individuals and their families. Only the person who made it knows the materials that empower it. The wooden figure is simply the armature on which the magical ingredients are placed. This small protective figure is for an individual.- Art of Africa
