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House of the Head Shrine: Equestrian (Ile Ori)

Workshop of Adesina Nigerian
19th–20th century
Not on view
A "house of the head," ile ori, is designed to contain a person's inner spiritual essence and identity. In Yoruba thought, individual character is defined by the essential nature that is situated in one's inner head.

This mixed-media sculpture is a symbol of leadership that embodies Yoruba notions of individuality. The shells attached to its base are signs of wealth and well-being, and the figures extending around the sides and the equestrian at its summit are symbols of prestige. Together these elements celebrate the prosperity and achievement of an especially distinguished individual. Personal monuments in soft sculpture of this kind were created by artists, such as members of the Adesina family, who also carved in wood.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: House of the Head Shrine: Equestrian (Ile Ori)
  • Artist: Workshop of Adesina
  • Date: 19th–20th century
  • Geography: Nigeria, Efon-Alaiye
  • Culture: Yoruba peoples, Ekiti group
  • Medium: Cloth, glass beads, cowrie shells, leather, mirrors
  • Dimensions: H. 29 x W. 9 3/8 x D. 10 3/4 in. (73.7 x 23.8 x 27.3 cm)
  • Classification: Textiles-Beadwork
  • Credit Line: Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Jeffrey S. Hammer, in memory of Mrs. Sophia Hammer, 1986
  • Object Number: 1986.477.1
  • Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

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Shoe (Bata ileke), Adesina Nigerian, Leather, beads, cloth, Yoruba peoples
Shoe (Bata ileke)
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mid-20th century
Support Post: Mother and Child, Ekiti-Yoruba artist, Wood, pigment, Ekiti-Yoruba peoples
Support Post: Mother and Child
Ekiti-Yoruba artist
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Te saqwit (tent divider), Beja artists, Cotton, leather, beads, cowrie shell, doum palm leaf (Hyphaene species, possibly thebaica), dye, Beja peoples
Te saqwit (tent divider)
Beja artists
mid-20th century
Twin Figure: Female (Ibeji), Agbonbiofe , possibly, Wood, nails, blueing, Yoruba peoples, Ekiti group
Twin Figure: Female (Ibeji)
Workshop of Agbonbiofe
Workshop of Obembe Alaiye
19th–20th century
Skirt, Cotton, glass beads, cowrie shells, Apo or Kenyah or Kayan peoples
Skirt
Apo or Kenyah or Kayan peoples
early 20th century

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