Ifa oracle tapper
Nigeria, Yoruba
not available anymore
Size
H: 18 cm
H: 7.1 inch
Description
wood, reddish brown patina, blackened in parts, carved with a human head, min. dam., slight traces of abrasion, on wooden base;
tappers are made of wood, brass or ivory. They are used by the diviners to strike the Ifa tray with the pointed end in order to attract “orunmilas” attention at the beginning of the session. The broad end is often hollowed, forming a bell, with a small clapper inside, which is rattled during invocations.