West African Yoruba Eshu Cult Dance Staff or Wrist Ornament
A West African Yoruba Eshu Cult Dance Staff or Wrist Ornament
Old smooth silky patina
Late 19th Century
SIZE: 8.5cm high – 3¼ ins high
cf: Afrika Museum Bergendal, Netherlands no. 488-5 and no. 631-2 for similar examples
Old smooth silky patina
Late 19th Century
SIZE: 8.5cm high – 3¼ ins high
cf: Afrika Museum Bergendal, Netherlands no. 488-5 and no. 631-2 for similar examples
Devotees of Eshu have figures such as this attached to their wrists with leather thongs whilst dancing and during processions. Remains of the thongs can still be seen in this example. There is a deliberate and strong resemblance to Yoruba children’s dolls symbolising the belief that Eshu cult members are simultaneously both children and adults, just like Eshu himself.
West African Yoruba Eshu Cult Dance Staff or Wrist Ornament
SOLD
