Yoruba Oba Adenla (Crown)

beads and textiles, of conical form with two opposing faces and multicolour birds affixed against a white, red and black ground, the top surmounted by a large bird

Measurements:

height 100 cm

Provenance:

The Estate of Ray Hughes

Reference:

The Oba's crown is worn during rituals and public functions. The faces on the crown represent the king’s ancestors and project the sense of an omniscient authority. The birds atop the crown symbolize the idea that no single man can rule alone and the king’s ability to mediate between the realms of human beings and spirits. The veil of beads downplays the king's identity as an individual and reinforces his role as divine leader. It is also to protect others from his powerful gaze

• EStimate $800 - $1,200
• sold $960 Incl BP