Staff "eshu" · Nigeria, Yoruba · ID: 3036146
sold
EUR 500
Size
H: 40 cm
H: 15.7 inch
Description
wood, shiny dark brown patina, remains of pigments, strings of glass beads, sacrificial traces, carved with the bearded face of “eshu”, who is identified by the projecting lobe, baring a further face of “eshu” on the rear, smoking a long pipe, min. dam., fine cracks, slight traces of abrasion, base;
the male deity of “eshu” played an important role in Yoruba religion. No sacrifice could ever be made without granting a gift to “eshu”, because he was looked upon as a mediator between humans and deities. How much he is still present in everyday life becomes obvious on market places where always a small “eshu” altar is erected.
Comparing literature
Drewal, Henry John, African Artistry, Atlanta 1980, p. 27