250101 - Extremely Rare Grave stele guardian of Antandroy/Antanosy - Madagascar.

Extremely rare Old Grave stele guardian of Antandroy / Antanosy from Madagascar.

This Grave stele is dated from the begin of the 20th century and comes with a certificate of authenticity..

Height 120 cm x Width 20 cm x Depth 18 cm.

Weight 9.5 kg.

Location: Tolarana/Analapatsa.

These sculptures were usually intended to represent special features of the deceased, in order to keep the memory alive and to drive away spirits. This male figure probably represents a shepherd from the Atandroy ethnic group. The figure wears the typical round, conical headdress and loincloth of the rural population. There was probably a shepherd's crook or spear on his shoulder; it is weathered and broken.

solid, heavy tropical hardwood (rosewood), light weathering, old age

This type of ancestral grave stele (guardian) is rarely found in Madagascar because it is not one of the known AloAlo steles. The Atandroy/Antanosy ethnic group in the southern region around Tolarano (Fort Dauphin) had the custom of setting up a grave guard in their native village for a deceased person abroad.

The Atandroy ethnic group in Madagascar is considered proud, fearless and warlike. Even in colonial times, they have always resisted foreign domination. The initiation ritual of the pubescent boys includes stealing a foreign zebu, if necessary by force. This original characteristic made the Atandroy ideal as guards and security personnel throughout the country.

For shipping outside the Netherlands ask me first.