
Anonymous
Yoruba, Nigeria
Edan Ogboni
20th century
Brass
Gift of George and Nancy Ellis
2012.10.2
The edan consists of two figures, chained together at the head and usually made of brass. One is always a female, the other a male. They are said to resemble Onlie, the Earth’s spiritual owner. Brass, which does not rust, is melted over iron rods. The forms represent immortality, longevity, and well-being. Worn around initiates’ necks, the edans are used in Yoruba religious societies, as well as judicial, healing, and communication ceremonies, the most important being the worship of Mother Earth.
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