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African & Tribal Art :
Yoruba Sculptures : Yoruba Ogboni Brass Sculpture
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Yoruba Ogboni Brass Sculpture - PF.5987
Origin: Nigeria
Circa: 18
th
Century AD
to 19
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
6.75" (17.1cm) high
x 2.5" (6.4cm) wide
Collection: African
Medium: Brass
$5,000.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
The Yoruba are noted for the artistic excellence
of their bronze work. Traditionally one of the
most popular tribe among African art collectors
and scholars, they are also famed for their
fabulous beadwork and wooden masks and
sculptures. As in most of Africa, the works of art
are created to celebrate the wealth and splendor
of the king, called the Oba by the Yoruba.
Otherwise, most art relates to representations of
ancestors and spiritual deities. This fascinating
sculpture depicts a female warrior brandishing a
massive sword. A snake has crawled from the
ground onto her body and rests hunkered over
her shoulder. The serpent might suggest that
this woman possesses spiritual powers over the
natural world. In her left hand she holds an
object shaped like a wine bottle. Although this
might be what it represents, since imported wine
was considered an object of prestige to be
consumed only by the royal court, this object
might be a sistrum (a type of rattle) or even a
headdress. Otherwise, this woman is elegantly
garbed in a beaded skirt with two spiral
coverings and carries a type of backpack with
two pouches that fall under her arms. The
styling of her facial features is typical of the
Yoruba style, especially the bulging eyes. The
combination of abstract and representational
detail reveals that this figure is no ordinary
woman but possesses a spiritual energy that
cannot be conveyed by mimicking the forms of
reality. Gazing upon this sculpture, we are
transported back to the regal splendors of the
royal court of the Oba. Likely presented upon a
shrine or makeshift altar, this sculpture might
have served as a spiritual guardian that warded
off the forces of evil. Thus she will continue to
protect us from harm today.
- (PF.5987)
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