Divination Oracle

Yoruba, Nigeria
19th Century or before
Previous Collection: Michael Oliver Collection, NYC
Field collected by Forbenius 1915

For the Yoruba diviner; a wooden divination board; a wooden or ivory tapper, and a small oracle in the form of a head; are the essential objects used in divination. This example is a superb carving. From the top of coiffure to the ringed neck; this oracle shows the skilled craftsmanship of the 19th century or even possibly earlier. The reddish patina is from extensive handling from oils and even cam wood. The bottom of the oracle shows good wear from generations of use. Frobenius is extremely good provenance; he collected many fine objects early in the 20th century.

This Oracle stand 3 inches tall.

SOLD / 1-11-11