A carved wooden tray with raised face of Eshu and zoomorphic figures, linear designs with symbolic meaning. Such a tray is used by the babalawo (diviner) when seeking advice or faced with an illness. An opon are used to invoke the god Orunmila (also called Ifa, the god associated with wisdom, knowledge and divination) during divination processes.During the divination process, a babalawo spreads a layer of wood flour across the surface of the opon Ifa. 16 sacred palm nuts (or a divination chain - opele Ifa) are shaken to reveal wisdom and communication from Orunmila. These verses (odu) are then transferred onto the dusted tray, translated and recited by the babalawo for the client to reflect upon and take action. This tray shows field use and wear and is an authentic old example. The Tray measures 16 x 8.5 inches. Provenance: A Private New Jersey collection since 2009.

Fair, well handled