Bamgboye (Odo-Owa, Ekiti region, ca. 1893-1978) Esu Dance Staff, 20th century Wood, cowrie shells, hide Gift of Martin L. Schulman, M.D., 1981 (1981.422.1) A master of complex compositions on a monumental scale, the sculptor Bamgboye held the title alaga (chief) of Odo-Owa and was an Ife priest. The impact of his influence, both as an artist and as a leader, is reflected in the praises sung in his memory: "The mighty one has fallen in the forest and can no longer rise./The elephant has fallen; the elephant is gone." During the later part of Bamgboye's career, regional patronage systems had begun to change and commissions from Europeans created a market for new types of sculpture. In an effort to encourage the preservation of traditional art forms, some British colonial officials sponsored an experimental school and employed Bamgboye as an instructor.

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