Altar to the Hand (Ikegobo)

Edo peoples

Not on view

In the royal kingdom of Benin, cylindrical "altars to the hand," or ikegobo, are created to celebrate a person's accomplishments and successes. Ikegobo are dedicated to the hand, the aspect of an individual's being associated with action and the initiation of change which is at the root of one's achievements. Depending on a patron's wealth and place within the hierarchy of the kingdom, these objects are made of brass, wood, or clay.

Altar to the Hand (Ikegobo), Wood, sacrificial materials, Edo peoples

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Altar to the Hand (Ikegobo), Wood, sacrificial materials, Edo peoples
Altar to the Hand (Ikegobo), Wood, sacrificial materials, Edo peoples
Altar to the Hand (Ikegobo), Wood, sacrificial materials, Edo peoples
Altar to the Hand (Ikegobo), Wood, sacrificial materials, Edo peoples

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