Paire de bâtons rituels "edan ogboni" ("edan oshugbo") ·  Nigéria, Yoruba · ID: 3047260

Description

bronze/brass, iron, base

A male and a female figure, each cast around iron spikes. Both have “ogboni” crescents on their foreheads and hold signs of dignity in their hands (ceremonial pipe and knife).

“Ogboni” is a secret society of the Yoruba, which is called “oshugbo” in the Ijebu area.

“Edan” embodies the authority of the “ogboni” society, according to whose principles the social order within the community is regulated.

“Edan” staffs are used by cult members as a symbol of membership and were worn hanging around the neck. The staffs are also said to be a physical embodiment of the god “Edan” himself.

The novices receive these staffs at their initiation into the “ogboni” society from the hand of the high priest “apena”. They remain in their possession until death and are kept in a hidden place in the house.

Publications

AHDRC: 0103800