Male figure (Ogboni)
, Date unknown
141 x 91 cm (h x w)
Ceramic
The Ogboni was a group of society elders in Yoruba tradition, who acted as spiritual advisers in the governance and decision-making processes of the kingdom. Though not rulers by definition, the Ogboni were powerful members of the community who frequently limited and balanced the power of the king. This ceramic figure holds his left fist above his right, a typical gestural signifier of Ogboni status.