Altar featuring a young dignitary on horseback - Lot 69

Altar featuring a young dignitary on horseback Wood, old wood eroded in places, remains of brown patina. Yoruba, Nigeria, late 19th - early 20th century. H_45.5 cm L_15.5 cm Provenance : - Former collection of Mr. Trullu, France - Acquired by Antonio Segui from Galerie Ratton-Hourdé, Paris, November 24, 2006 Among the Yoruba of southwestern Nigeria and former Dahomey, the organization of kingdoms is accompanied by a sacred conception of power, with each sovereign considered to be of divine essence. Religious life is structured around a pantheon of òrìṣà, including Ogun, god of iron and war, Eshu, mediator of destiny and trade, and Osun, goddess of water, associated with Shango. This altar is part of this ritual framework and was used for ceremonies accompanying major community events. The representation of the horseman, a high-ranking warrior figure, underlines the role of military power and its link with authority. The stylization of the features and the frontal nature of the composition create a direct presence for the figure, characteristic of late 19th century Yoruba sculpture. Expert : Serge REYNES