Kneeling Female Figure (Arugba)
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Object Label
The Yoruba consider the head to be the seat of an individual’s àse (power or life force) and their ìwà (personal character). The considerable detail given to the head of this arugba (meaning “one who carries the calabash”) and the blue hair crest, probably decorated with the pigment known as laundry blue, suggest a cool, controlled vitality.
This figure likely served as a receptacle for small gifts on a shrine altar, possibly dedicated to Shango, the god of thunder and lightning. Based on characteristic carving details and similarities of form, this figure was probably carved by Maku, the master carver of the town of Erin, or by his son Toibo.
Caption
Possibly Maku, master carver of Erin (died 1915); possibly Toibo (died 1937). Kneeling Female Figure (Arugba), early 20th century. Wood, pigment, 22 x 7 x 8 in. (55.9 x 17.8 x 20.3 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Robert A. Mandelbaum, 82.103a-b. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Culture
Title
Kneeling Female Figure (Arugba)
Date
early 20th century
Geography
Place made: Oshogbo, Osun State, Nigeria
Medium
Wood, pigment
Classification
Dimensions
22 x 7 x 8 in. (55.9 x 17.8 x 20.3 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Robert A. Mandelbaum
Accession Number
82.103a-b
Frequent Art Questions
Tell me more.
This sculpture was likely associated with a shrine dedicated to Ṣàngó, the òrìṣà, or Yorùbá deity, of thunder and lightning. The woman may represent a devotee at the altar.This form is known in Yoruba as arugba, meaning "she who carries the calabash," referring to the container in her arms. The lid is removable and offerings could be placed inside.Thank you.
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