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African & Tribal Art :
Yoruba Terracotta Vessels : Yoruba Terracotta Altar Vessel
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Yoruba Terracotta Altar Vessel - PF.4801
Origin: Southwestern Nigeria
Circa: 19
th
Century AD
to 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
10.5" (26.7cm) high
x 7.5" (19.1cm) wide
Collection: African
Medium: Terracotta
$6,000.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
The visual representation of deities must fall
somewhere between the recognizably human and
pure abstraction. The face on the handle of this
vessel looks out as if from another world; and yet
he appears quite human and compassionate. The
deity Esu is depicted on divination trays as the
divine mediator, a being who is guardian of the
ritual process. In this sense the deity on the
handle hovers above the offerings placed in the
twin cups and in the central bowl. The rough
markings on the lid, combined with the
elemental quality of the clay, are like the earth
itself with its wild vegetable growth. The deity
then watches over the ritual of making offerings;
he is part of the process and also aloof as
appropriate to a spiritual entity. The cups may
have contained kola nuts which are presented as
a sign of peace and welcome to guests. They are
also used to communicate with otherworldly
forces, deities who are 'welcomed' and
encouraged by the power of such vessels to
bring good fortune and well-being to everyone.
- (PF.4801)
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