A West African North Nigerian Shamba hand carved wooden statue depicting a human figure with an angular body and an open mouth. Probably, it is the Mama statue, also called Kantana, settled on the Jos plateau. They wear crests in the form of stylized animal heads symbolizing the spirits of the bush. Authentic African mama statues are rare and their function uncertain. They are usually inlaid with a rich patina. Another type of mama statue is believed to be a means of communication with the spirit world. Mounted on a rectangular shaped base. West African Figures, Figurines, Statues, Ethnic And Tribal Art Collectibles.