African Arts Gallery

The cut carriers in the traditional African art of Nigeria.
The priestess, the cheeks marked with scarifications in three vertical claws, is on one knee and presents a cup for offerings or divination, supported by four Caryatidic figures. The lid is engraved with decorative motifs. The Yoruba religion is based on artistic sculptures with coded messages ( aroko). These spirits are supposed to intercede with the supreme god Olodumare.
Patine polychrome mate. Many erosions.
The Yoruba society is very organized and has several associations whose roles vary. While the egbe society is strengthening social norms, the aro unites farmers. The gelede has more esoteric and religious aims. The notables come together in a society called susu . Offering cups, some of which were used to store kola nuts or others present for visitors, were once located in the royal palaces of the Ekiti and Igbomina regions of the country Yoruba.The kingdoms of Oyo and Ijebu were born following the disappearance of the civilization Ifé and are still the basis of the political structure of the Yoruba. The Oyos created two cults centered on the societies Egungun and Sango, still active, who worship their gods, the Orisa, through ceremonies using masks, statuettes, sceptres and divine supports.