Sango Staff: Male Figure (Ose Sango)

Duga of Meko

ca. 1880–1960 · Wood, pigment · Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

During his lifetime, Duga was recognized as Meko's most talented sculptor. Both Duga's father and grandfather had been woodcarvers. His father also occupied an important position within the Gelede society, a major patron of sculptural works that subsequently sponsored Duga's apprenticeship. Duga received his training as a boy under a master carver at Ketu, an important art center. In return, it was understood that Duga would carve Gelede masks without charge, though he would be allowed to keep fees for commissions made by worshipers of other deities, such as Sango.

Artist

Duga of Meko

Date

ca. 1880–1960

Medium

Wood, pigment

Culture

Yoruba peoples

Department

Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

Credit line

Gift of Ernst Anspach, 1983