Jun 12, 2007
Oct 30, 2009
Oct 30, 2009
Oct 30, 2009
Oct 30, 2009

Altar figure (onílé)

Altar figure (onílé)

possibly 1700s

Copper alloy

With base: 34.3 x 10.8 x 25.4 cm (13 1/2 x 4 1/4 x 10 in.); without base: 31.3 x 10.8 x 25.4 cm (12 5/16 x 4 1/4 x 10 in.)

Alma Kroeger Fund 2007.160

Description

This figure of a horse and rider is related to the Ògbóni society, whose responsibilities include the burial of titleholders and leaders and the judgment and punishment of criminals. A counterweight to the authority of the king, it is also responsible for the selection, installation, and removal of rulers. Probably once forming a pair with a female figure, the equestrian symbolized the king’s male ancestors.

See also
Collection: 
African Art
Department: 
African Art
Type of artwork: 
Sculpture
Medium: 
Copper alloy
Credit line: 
Alma Kroeger Fund

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