Yoruba Wooden Divination Bowl Supported by a Kneeling Woman

This spectacular carving once held Ikan Ifa, the sixteen sacred palm nuts used during Ifa divination rites. The sculptural subject is a marvelous merging of religious and domestic action. The devotee kneels before the gods in supplication, her face composed and purposeful, yet contented. At the same time, she carefully balances a heavy burden that rests on her head. The artistry of the work is evident in the way in which the carver has conveyed the duties that she performs through the simplicity of line and form, eliminating all that is unnecessary. However, the formal elements remain with the prominent breasts and the beautifully carved angular facial features. This delightful touch reminds us that simplicity is the true essence of beauty.