Yoruba statue Nigeria. - Lot 175

Yoruba statue Nigeria. This African tribal art sculpture is supposed to facilitate communication with the sacred, and remind the divinity of his duties towards mankind. It symbolizes the protection of the people and fertility. Wearing a high crest, she also sports the deep keloids of the Yoruba nobility on her face. The bulging eyes and full lips are also distinctive features of Yoruba tribal statuary. Her attire, necklace and bracelets, reflect her social standing. Grained polychrome patina. 26 cm The Yoruba practiced the slave trade with Europeans, particularly the Portuguese, before being completely subjugated by the English following a long period of infighting between the various kings or obas in power. The main Yoruba cults are Gélédé , Epa , Ogboni , and Esu , through which a wide variety of divinities are involved.