Ancestral Shrine , 20th Century
h = 200 cm
Bronze, Iron, Wood

The perpetuation of memory, affirmation of social identity and fulfilment of destiny grid the creation of shrines. The Objects selected for them are then vital forces incarnate and thus become granaries of memory. In them, the people communicate with the ancestors through Elao—- bronze casted commemorative heads. The shrine insures continuity and endowment by the orishas of health, wealth and fertility to those who honor them . The shrines are adorned with elaborate display of earthen sculptures and an array of many objects and materials including: effigy staffs, pots, sculpted chalks, drums, gongs, bells, swords and machetes; sculpted staff and others artworks. It is the belief that the complementary use of such visual objects and specific substances such as those collected from various medicinal shrubs and minerals in the construction of the shrine sculptures, combine to activate the potency of the deity during the worship experience.

Plus de Pan African Heritage Museum

Luba Headrest , 19th century
h = 40 in
Wood, Beads
Pan African Heritage Museum
Chokwe Stool , 19th century
h = 24 in
Wood, Metal
Pan African Heritage Museum
King of Old Oyo
h = 24 in
Pan African Heritage Museum