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African & Tribal Art :
Yoruba Edan Sculptures : Yoruba Lead Edan Sculpture
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Yoruba Lead Edan Sculpture - PF.4751
Origin: Southwestern Nigeria
Circa: 16
th
Century AD
to 18
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
18" (45.7cm) high
x 3.5" (8.9cm) wide
Collection: African
Medium: Lead
£1,800.00
Location: UAE
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| Description |
The Ogboni society consists of the elders of a
village or city who have decision-making
powers. Each Ogboni house possesses a pair of
Edan, small bronze or metal rods decorated with
two figures, male and female whose heads are
bound by a chain. It is believed these figures
radiate authority and power that comes from
their heads, and is reflective of the moral and
political authority of Ogboni elders. The figures
are separate beings, yet connected by the chain,
indicating the union of opposites that is a very
important principle in Yoruba religion.
This handsome figure has the “classic” elongated
face and wide, flattened cheeks. A lovely peaked
cap, to which the ring is attached, adds height
and further dimension to the entire figure. The
archetypal model for such Edans includes broad
shoulders and very long arms. These features
may represent a standard of beauty, or an image
carried on from generation to generation as
wholly representative of desirable attributes. The
expression on the face is intended as a model to
show the moral vigilance of the society whose
influence extends even to the king. Despite the
ravages of time this Edan stands firm and proud,
defiant and noble--just as the members of the
important Ogboni society.
- (PF.4751)
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