Onile are large, freestanding male or female
ancestor figures owned by an Osugbo lodge.
They represent the power of the Osugbo
member's ancestors and past owners of the
Osugbo house; serving also as visual models of
strength and wise judgment. The onile are
considered so powerful they are a kept in the
lodge out of sight from the public, and are
watched over by the Apena or Olurin, individuals
who are responsible for care of metal ritual
objects.
This amazing onile comprises dual images back
to back, both male, each with certain distinctive
features. One figure has his left fist on top of his
right. This placement signals the dominance of
spiritual and sacred matters over the material
world; and is also a greeting or blessing between
Osugbo members. Emphasis on the male sex
organs conveys the mystical power of
procreation. The heads are large in proportion to
the bodies because this is where the spiritual
essence of an individual resides. The power of
this sculpture is so intense it transcends cultural
boundaries, making us aware of something very
mysterious that inexplicably has meaning in our
own lives. This truly is the power of art.
- (PF.4923)
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