Objects used by and designed for the king (Oba)
often reflect the exalted status of the ruler. This
charming holder is fashioned so the king can
comfortably hold the center tubular portion
while a cup is placed inside the "pouch." It is
designed to be inverted, with the same structure
and iconographic image top and bottom. The
Yoruba not only believe the Oba's gaze is
powerful, but also his touch; necessitating that
his people not touch his person. Hence the need
for a "device" to separate royalty from subject,
and also a metaphor for divine rule of kings. Blue
and white beads are associated with Orisha
Oshun, deity of medicinal waters. The face on
both ends may refer to a particular deity, or an
ancestral image. Tassels of blue and red beads,
similar to an Oba's veil, hang from the rim of one
end. The clever use of white as a border
extenuates the deep blue eyes of both faces,
while the red and blue-white beads give the
stem a feeling of lightness. In fact, the entire
object gives off a sense of good cheer and well-
being, mixed with a certain mystery; just the
effect an Oba would wish to present.
- (PF.5010)
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