Shrine figure "eshu" · Nigeria, Yoruba · ID: 3033157
Description
wood, shiny blackish brown patina, remains of indigo blue paint, in shape of a flute playing half figure, decorated with bells, strings of cowrie snails and glass beads, characteristic “eshu” - plait on the back, rep. (base), min. dam., slight traces of abrasion, on metal base;
“Eshu” is said to be a mediator between the deities and the humans. He is dreaded, because he is able to cross the positive sinews of the deities. His contradictory character is represented by contrasting pairs, such as old man/child, giant/dwarf or man/woman. The phallic lobe and the flute are interpreted as expression of his aggressive sexuality. “Eshu” can be looked upon as messenger of the king, blowing his pipe, in order to announce the arrival of important people.
The object Shrine figure “eshu” with the object ID 3033157 was last part of the auction 70th tribal art auction at September 8, 2012 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house. The object with the lot number 327 achieved a sales price of EUR 5,000.
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Comparing literature
Witte, Hans, A Closer Look, Berg en Dal 2004, p. 121, ill. 109