About this artwork
Ceremonial swords with elaborate beaded sheaths and hilts are the prerogative of Yoruba kings and high-ranking chiefs in the Owo region. The overhanging flaps feature hunters holding rifles and a man wearing a European-style hat. In the 18th or early 19th century, European-inspired fashions gained prestige for many Africans. [See 1991.385a-b and 1991.386a-b]. Above the hunters’ heads are birds, references to the supernatural powers of women, without whose cooperation a community could not thrive. It is likely that the same artist made the sword and sheath, as well as the panels below them, as a matched set. [See 1991.386a-b]. During festivals such panels were worn draped over a belt at the left hip.
-
Status
- Currently Off View
-
Department
- Arts of Africa
-
Culture
- Yoruba
-
Title
- Oba's Panels
-
Place
- Nigeria (Object made in:)
-
Date
- 1875–1925
-
Medium
- Cloth, glass beads, and thread
-
Dimensions
- 57.2 × 42 × 2.6 cm (22 1/2 × 16 1/2 × 1 in.)
-
Credit Line
- Gift of Deborah Stokes and Jeffrey Hammer
-
Reference Number
- 1991.935.1-2
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.
