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Female Figure with Rooster (Olumeye)

A work made of wood, pigment, glass beads, and thread.

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  • A work made of wood, pigment, glass beads, and thread.

Date:

Late 19th or early 20th century

Artist:

Attributed to Obembe Alaiye (active late 19th/early 20th century) or Agbonbiofe (died 1945)
Yoruba
Nigeria
Coastal West Africa

About this artwork

The rooster-shaped container proffered by this kneeling female figure was made to hold kola nuts, which are shared with guests as a gesture of hospitality. The sculpture’s surface is rubbed with washing blue, a laundry aid used to prevent white clothes from yellowing. The color blue carries special significance for the Yoruba. Expressing coolness, it is associated with water and water deities as well as admired qualities such as purity, discretion, and composure.

Status

On View, Gallery 137

Department

Arts of Africa

Culture

Yoruba

Artists

Agbonbiofe , Obembe Alaiye

Title

Female Figure with Rooster (Olumeye)

Places

Nigeria (Object made in), Africa (Object made in)

Date

1875-1925

Medium

Wood, pigment, glass beads, and thread

Dimensions

40.1 × 31.1 × 22.8 cm (16 × 12 1/4 × 9 in.)

Credit Line

Ada Turnbull Hertle Fund

Reference Number

1977.493

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.

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