A large, sitting female figure from the Fon in Benin. Long, pendulous breasts to which are tied an animals skull, Shango axe and cowrie shells with a thick textile band. What appears to be a dried plant hangs on the left shoulder while what is possible another animals skull is attached to the upper back and covered in cloth.Cord, possibly made of plant-fibre is thickly wound around the neck attaching a small dried plant. Encrusted patina, matt black surface.
The figure is mounted on a metal plate.
Bocios are used to heal or protect and on some occasions to attack other people. Their exact purpose though is for the most part kept a secret between the producer and the customer.
