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Brass head for use in the worship of Osun

1700/1799

British Museum

British Museum
London, United Kingdom

This head is associated with the Osun cult, concerned with the powers found in leaves, herbs and plants of the deep forest. Osun is one of a number of gods worshipped in Benin City, S. In the eighteenth century the obas (kings) of Benin developed a new sculptural form to represent their magical and mystical powers. This head is richly embellished with imagery associated with the various powers at the disposal of the oba to serve his people.

Snakes emerging from the eyes, nose and ears grip frogs in their jaws. This refers to a traditional belief that those with occult powers vomit snakes when setting out to destroy their enemies. Snakes are also the warriors of the god Osun. Pythons are the messengers of Olokun, the god of the waters and bearer of wealth and fertility.

The crown is decorated with figures of birds, known as ‘lords of the witches’. These are possibly also the birds depicted on palace roof. The birds are associated with the protective powers of Osun diviners.
Two stone axe-heads are depicted on the forehead of this head. They refer to the thunderbolts hurled by Ogiuwu, the god of death on to his enemies. The knotted manilla (metal bracelet) forms directly above the axe-heads allude to the binding power of spells.

Details

  • Title: Brass head for use in the worship of Osun
  • Date Created: 1700/1799
  • Physical Dimensions: Height: 27.50cm; Width: 14.00cm; Depth: 17.00cm
  • External Link: British Museum collection online
  • Technique: lost-wax cast; plaited
  • Subject: deity; bird; reptile
  • Registration number: Af1948,09.1
  • Production place: Made in Benin City
  • Place: Found/Acquired Benin City
  • Peoples: Made by Edo
  • Other information: Cultural rights may apply.
  • Material: bronze
  • Copyright: Photo: © Trustees of the British Museum
  • Acquisition: Purchased from Sotheby's

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