A Rare Yoruba Boat for a Shrine Eastern Nigeria/Benin, early to mid 20th century Constructed of numerous polychrome wood pieces. The narrow canoe is floated on an animal with long legs and a dog-like head that holds the anchor chain in its mouth. The anchor itself is the head and torso of a female, all painted white. The boat has a dragon head with sharp carved teeth, a serpentine body and a spotted fin-like tail. Nine figures are enclosed in the boat holding a variety of symbolic objects aloft, a few hold paddles. A tall prow ornament at front with two oil lamps or vessels suspended each side. A supplemental chain is at the back. In good condition, appears that some parts are missing. Extant parts are interchangeable. Over all the paint is darkened from a shrine context with smoke, and age. Provenance: Property from the Collection of Dr. Richard and Jan Baum, Los Angeles, CA Oumar Keinde, Dakar, Senegal and New York, NY Length: 58 inches HID03101062020 © 2023 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

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