Shrine Figure
Artist: Yoruba people, Owo subgroup
Date: 16th or 17th century
Dimensions:
8 × 3 1/4 × 3 in. (20.3 × 8.3 × 7.6 cm)
Medium: Ivory, camwood powder
Place of Origin: Kingdom of Owo, Nigeria
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Purchased with funds from the Libbey Endowment, Gift of Edward Drummond Libbey
Object number: 1976.40
Label Text:Carved from ivory, a prestigious material reserved in Owo society for ceremonial and royal objects, this figure with breasts, braided hair, and full skirt represents both a woman and a man. The olowo (Owo king) dressed as a woman for special occasions to honor female ancestors and the hidden side of his own power. Balancing a pot of sacred water and healing herbs, the figure’s nude torso and implied kneeling posture signify humility while praying to the gods. The red-brown color and the wear on the beads of the necklace indicate repeated ritual anointing with camwood powder.
On view
In Collection(s)