House of the Head Shrine: Equestrian (Ile Ori)

Adesina

19th–20th century · Cloth, glass beads, cowrie shells, leather, mirrors · Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

A "house of the head," ile ori, is designed to contain a person's inner spiritual essence and identity. In Yoruba thought, individual character is defined by the essential nature that is situated in one's inner head. This mixed-media sculpture is a symbol of leadership that embodies Yoruba notions of individuality. The shells attached to its base are signs of wealth and well-being, and the figures extending around the sides and the equestrian at its summit are symbols of prestige. Together these elements celebrate the prosperity and achievement of an especially distinguished individual. Personal monuments in soft sculpture of this kind were created by artists, such as members of the Adesina family, who also carved in wood.

Artist

Adesina

Date

19th–20th century

Medium

Cloth, glass beads, cowrie shells, leather, mirrors

Culture

Yoruba peoples, Ekiti group

Department

Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

Credit line

Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Jeffrey S. Hammer, in memory of Mrs. Sophia Hammer, 1986