Possibly Bangwa peoples, Grassfields region, Cameroon
Late 19th to mid-20th century
Wood, encrustation
98-26-1, gift of Allan Frumkin

Many African peoples believe special, small figures protect their owners from physical and spiritual harm. This small figure, which was held, rubbed and carried around either in a pouch or wrapped in clothing, was a personal object. While the hand-to-chin gesture reminds us of the larger Cameroon figure, this figure's whole body seems much more active, perhaps because it is not a formal, royal object or because it is from a different carving center.

Relative size

Yoruba peoples, Nigeria
Late 19th to mid-20th century
Wood, cowrie shells, leather, indigo pigment
70-5-1, gift of Merton Simpson

This staff honors Eshu, the Yoruba messenger god known for his clever tricks and ability to cause change. He is often described in opposites. One song calls him the biggest creature with the big wooden stick. Another says he is so small he stands on tiptoe to put salt in the soup.

Relative size