Afrikanische Kunst - Koller Auktionen

Afrikanische Kunst
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Owo ram’s head
Nigeria. 41.5 cm.
Provenance: Swiss private collection
The Owo kingdom, with its eponymous capital
Owo, lies in what is now known as Yorubaland,
between the Benin and the Ife empires. From
1400 to 1600 Owo was the center of the Yoruba
state and archeological findings document the
culture up to the early 15th century.
Due to strategic actions and the payment of
tributes, Owo has been able to keep its independence
to this day, despite its mighty neighbors.
Notwithstanding, the cultures have steadily influenced
each other, which can be easily recognized
in their formal language. For example, the Owo
carvers, well known for their expertly crafted
ivory and wood sculptures, sold many of their
artworks in the Benin Empire.
This ram’s head, carved from a single piece of
wood, once stood on a public official’s home shrine.
Regular obeisance, especially during the yam
harvesting season, as well as rituals, insured the
family’s standing and well-being. This powerful
piece could also be used to communicate with the
ancestors. For this purpose it also has a small hollow
space in back for power-giving attributes.
Due to the ram’s characteristics (vigilance, endurance,
power, strength, the ability to fight, persistence,
etc.), this massive sculpture is a dynastic
symbol. It allegorically stands for the rulers’
authority and power.
The horns’ dynamic curve, the alert ears, and the
strong neck on the artfully ornamented base are
exemplary for the Owo’s deeply expressive art.
For further reading:
Eyo, Ekpo (1977). Two Thousand Years Nigerian
Art. Lagos: Federal Department of Antiquities.
CHF 10 000.- / 15 000.-
(€ 7 460.- / 11 190.-)