Master Hand: Individuality and Creativity among Yoruba Sculptors | Explore & Learn

Duga (Meko, Ketu region, ca. 1890-1960)
Sango Staff (Ose Sango): Standing Male Figure, first half of the 20th century
Wood, pigment
Gift of Ernst Anspach, 1983 (1983.473)
During his lifetime, Duga was recognized as Meko's most talented sculptor. Both Duga's father and grandfather had been woodcarvers. His father also occupied an important position within the Gelede society, a major patron of sculptural works that subsequently sponsored Duga's apprenticeship. Duga received his training as a boy under a master carver at Ketu, an important art center. In return, it was understood that Duga would carve Gelede masks without charge, though he would be allowed to keep fees for commissions made by worshipers of other deities, such as Sango.
While doing research in the region during the 1950s, anthropologist William Bascom interviewed Duga, documented him carving, and commissioned works from him. He observed that Duga was never content with simply making a copy of what he had previously done but instead constantly strove to improve upon his earlier work.

Photograph Credits