Details
ITEM #:
40001
ETHNICITY:
Yoruba
ORIGIN:
Nigeria
MEDIUM:
Cloth, Beads, Thread.
DIMENSIONS:
25.5″ (64.8 cm) Tall.
CONDITION:
Very Good
NOTE:
Custom Display Stand Included.
PROVENANCE:
Private Collection – Florida, USA.
CATALOGUE NOTE:
The awe-inspiring crowns worn by Yoruba kings in Nigeria are some of the most impressive beaded objects in Africa. These cone-shaped crowns are adorned with vibrant colored beads, creating a visually stunning effect. But these crowns are more than just symbols of high social status; they hold deep cultural and spiritual significance.
Beads are considered sacred by the Yoruba people, and only powerful kings and priests who can bridge the gap between the secular and the divine are allowed to wear them. The crown, known as ade, is the most important item in the royal Yoruba regalia, and only a select few kings from royal families have the privilege to wear one. The beaded veil that hangs from the crown is a significant part of the ensemble, serving to cover the king’s face and emphasize his role as a divine leader. It is said that the veil also protects onlookers from the king’s powerful gaze.
The faces depicted on the crowns represent and pay homage to the ancestors, particularly Oduduwa, the legendary founder and first king of the Yoruba people. These faces serve as a reminder of the royal lineage and the longstanding tradition of monarchy.
The inclusion of birds on many of these crowns symbolizes the connection between the human and spirit world. It represents the king’s ability to mediate between these realms and underscores the importance of female power, both nurturing and destructive. The presence of birds also highlights the crucial role that women play in supporting the king and maintaining the harmony of the village.
The repeated patterns found in the design of the crowns symbolize the interconnectedness of all life and the delicate balance required to sustain it. These patterns also emphasize the lineage and hereditary connection between the current king and his predecessors.
In summary, the beaded crowns of the Yoruba kings are not only visually striking, but they also embody the rich cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs of the Yoruba people. They are a testament to the power and significance of the royal lineage, the connection between the human and spirit realms, and the important role of women in Yoruba society.
