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HOME :
African & Tribal Art :
Yoruba Sculptures : Yoruba Ogboni Brass Sculpture
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Yoruba Ogboni Brass Sculpture - PF.5988
Origin: Nigeria
Circa: 18
th
Century AD
to 19
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
8.25" (21.0cm) high
x 1.75" (4.4cm) wide
Collection: African
Style: Yoruba
Medium: Brass
$3,600.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
The Yoruba are noted for the artistic excellence
of their metalwork. 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. In her left hand she holds an object
shaped like a flywhisk. Flywhisk where typically
used by royal servants and are considered among
the most prestigious objects of royal regalia.
Otherwise, this woman is ornately embellished
with various bracelets, anklets, and a necklace.
There is evidence of raised scarification along the
nape of her neck, across her breasts, and around
her pubic region. These ornamental scarification
were believed to enhance a persons sexual
desirability as well as indicating their rank within
society. Atop her head, she is crowned with a
beaded headdress typical of the royal court. In
real life, these crowns are designed in fabulous
colors and often feature birds and other such
animals adorning them, as is the case with this
bronze example. 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 make-shift 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.5988)
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