Gravepost (Aloalo)

Mahafaly

1 of 3

Object Label

Aloalo are commemorative grave markers used by royal Mahafaly clans. These posts symbolize a union between dead and living family members. Here a man holds a horn filled with medicine in one hand and extends the other to anoint a kneeling woman in a healing ceremony.

Caption

Mahafaly. Gravepost (Aloalo), 20th century. Wood, paint, 53 1/2 x 9 3/4 x 5 1/2 in. (135.9 x 24.8 x 14 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Carll H. de Silver Fund, Ella C. Woodward Memorial Fund, and Robert A. Levinson Fund, 69.10. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)

Gallery

Not on view

Collection

Arts of Africa

Culture

Mahafaly

Title

Gravepost (Aloalo)

Date

20th century

Geography

Place made: Ambovombe, Madagascar

Medium

Wood, paint

Classification

Ornament

Dimensions

53 1/2 x 9 3/4 x 5 1/2 in. (135.9 x 24.8 x 14 cm)

Credit Line

Carll H. de Silver Fund, Ella C. Woodward Memorial Fund, and Robert A. Levinson Fund

Accession Number

69.10

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