Sanponna: Deity of Smallpox and Infectious Diseases

This remarkable work of art is located in the Sacred Potter Field, one of three monumental sculptures situated in this sacred area. It represents the metamorphosis of Sanponna, the powerful Orisa (Deity) of Smallpox and Infectious Diseases. The name is considered a taboo amongst Yoruba traditionalists in respect of the power of the Orisa and so as not to invoke diseases. Smallpox was believed to be foisted on humans due to Sanponna’s “divine displeasure”.
This work of art is completely in harmony with its environment. The complex of intertwined youthful figures appears weightless. They represent a complicated harmony of three spirits: Alajogun-Obaluaye-Alájere, the number three being the sacred number of Sanponna.
This work was completed in approximately 1980, inspired by Susanne Wenger.
Forty plus years later this monumental sculpture remains completely intact and has required only very minor restoration. This is because Wenger and her team only used reinforced cement and not a mixture of earth in the core, as was the case in so many other of the works of art in the Groves. It demonstrates that the restored Shrines and sculptures where only cement has been used will be very long lasting indeed.