Iróké Ifá (Ifa Divination Tapper) (Primary Title)

Unknown (Artist)

19th–20th century
Yoruba
Sculpture
Tools, Equipment, Utensils
ivory
Nigeria, Republic of Benin
Overall: 11 × 1 1/4 in. (27.94 × 3.18 cm)
2002.600
An ivory tapper is used to strike the divination board during key moments of a divination session. The kneeling woman on this tapper is a Yoruba symbol for serenity, balance, and reverence. Above her head is a bird whose long beak tapers with the natural shape of the ivory tusk. For the Yoruba, birds are associated with the spirit realm and are symbols of wise counsel.
Gift of Robert and Nancy Nooter
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC

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