Sango shrine figure with musicians (Yoruba), early 20thcentury.
Wood, height: 73.5 cm.
Ian Auld Collection.
The Yoruba deity of thunder and lightning, controller of rain-fall,
Sango, receives these carvings from his devotees. Shrines were
not only dedicated to pacify him, but also to harness his dynamic
power for communal benefit. The female figure standing here
represents a priestess meant to appease the fecund principle of
nature; she shakes rattle-gourds along with other musicians in
praise of Sango. The high-crest coiffure, worn by both male and
female priests, identifies her as a medium waiting for Sango’s
descent. The blue dye of the coiffure and pelvis of the figure, as
well as the headdresses of the musicians are intended to beautify
the carving, it serves as a modern substitute for indigo blue,
which is a colour the Yoruba highly value due to its association
with coolness.