Spirit figure "edjo re akare"

Description

wood, dyed red, white and black pigment, fabric, insect caused damage / weathering (base, hut), pedestal

The Urhobo believe that “edjo” spirits live in the surrounding nature. Figures called “edjo re akare” (i.e. “spirits in carved form”) are believed to be the physical manifestation of these “edjo” spirits. They are depicted in the form of mythical warriors and female figures, and so they are a tribute to the ancestors and founding fathers of a community.

The figures receive sacrifices to keep the spirits well content. The community stages large annual festivals in honour of the “edjo”, which include elaborate dances often accompanied by masquerade performances, lavish meals and extensive displays of wealth. Beforehand, they are traditionally painted in red, black and yellow and covered in white chalk (“orhe”). It is believed that the white chalk purifies the figures and links the “edjo” spirits to the “erivwi” spiritual realm.

When not in use, “edjo” figures are kept in large groups in communal shrine houses “oguan redjo”, hidden from public view.

Comparing literature