Yoruba sculptors carved a variety of wooden containers that were used in domestic or ritual practices. One such bowl is the olumeye, named for the female figure, "one who knows honor," that serves as a messenger to the spirits.

Throughout his career, Olowe carved several unique versions of olumeye. Although the kneeling female figure is striking on the National Museum of African Art's vessel, it is the offering bowl that draws attention. Male and female figures circling the base support the bowl on their upraised arms. The dome-shaped lid is decorated with four dancing girls and the entire surface of the bowl is carved with geometric patterns. This composition highlights not only Olowe's virtuosity as a sculptor, but his imagination. By introducing new icons to Yoruba art, Olowe challenged convention. Males in Yoruba canon are depicted fully clothed and standing, while females are portrayed kneeling, unless they represent royalty. Kneeling, nude males were a radical departure from the accepted canon. Perhaps Olowe's unique image of the male figure could be understood if the context in which this bowl was used were precisely known. Likewise, the imagery of the four dancing girls on the lid does not appear elsewhere in African art.

With the exception of the lid, this complex sculpture was carved from a single piece of wood, as is usual in African art. Olowe, however, demonstrates further his superior skill and talent by carving a bearded human head within the "cage" created by the ring of kneeling caryatids. Although the head can be moved about, it cannot be removed from the cage.