Deity Figure (Shango)
ClassificationsSculpture
Culture
Yoruba
Date20th Century
Made AtNigeria, Africa
MediumWood, paint and metal
DimensionsOverall: 24 in. (61 cm)
Credit LineFrom the Barbara Jean Jacoby Collection
Object number87.26.26
DescriptionThis Yoruba figure represents a god, or "Orisha,' named Shango. Shango was considered to be a royal ancestor of the Yoruba peoples and was the fourth king of the Oyo kingdom. After his seven-year reign and death, he was deificated into an Orisha, as he was considered one of the most powerful rulers in Yorubaland. Despite his high praise throughout time, he was very violent and prone to anger, with a career marked by many battles, raids and campaigns. Shango is worshipped by by using red clothing, as he favored the color red in his lifetime.On View
Not on view
