Altar to the Hand (Ikegobo)

Unknown

19th century · Wood, sacrificial materials · Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

In the royal kingdom of Benin, cylindrical "altars to the hand," or ikegobo, are created to celebrate a person's accomplishments and successes. Ikegobo are dedicated to the hand, the aspect of an individual's being associated with action and the initiation of change which is at the root of one's achievements. Depending on a patron's wealth and place within the hierarchy of the kingdom, these objects are made of brass, wood, or clay.

Artist

Unknown

Date

19th century

Medium

Wood, sacrificial materials

Culture

Edo peoples

Department

Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

Credit line

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Klaus G. Perls, 1991