Poteau de palais "opo" ·  Nigéria, Yoruba · ID: 3047396

Description

wood, colour pigments, missing parts / insect caused damage, base

These posts are an architectural feature found primarily in the courtyards of palaces and at the entrances of “orisha” shrines, that is, in spaces that are privileged and sacred.

In Yoruba praise poetry, the post “opo” is a metaphor for endurance and stability: just as the post “supports” the house, so too individuals support the community and contribute to the preservation and continuity of the society.

It depicts a female figure with “yata” dance jewelry, which is always
worn in pairs, on straps arranged in a cross, on both sides of the hips.
Her left hand is placed on her chest to indicate welcome and maternal
generosity. Below is a kneeling female figure with a shell. This motif
can be interpreted as a sign of peace and welcome, because important
guests were greeted with kola nuts in such bowls.