**First Time At Auction**

West Africa, Nigeria, Yoruba people, ca. early to mid 20th century CE. A carved wooden divination board of a circular form and a peripheral border of incised linear, circular, and abstract geometric motifs. Central to the board is a red-hued face of the Orisha named Eshu, one of the pseudonyms for Eleggua, the proverbial messenger for all other Orishas. The center of the board is slightly depressed, carved to receive various sacred materials used during the divination process. During the divination ritual, a highly trained priest known as a Babalawo, which translates to "the father of ancient wisdom", sprinkles pulverized wood or yam flour onto the depressed central area of the board and then rhythmically taps the board with a tapper (Iroke Ifa) to invoke the presence of Orunmila, the Yoruban spirit of wisdom and divinity of prophesy and destiny. The divination process is a means of evoking Orunmila's wisdom. Size: 12.5" H (31.8 cm).

Provenance: ex-Nick Poolos collection, Adeon Gallery, Chicago, Illinois, USA acquired before 1970

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#126041

Large area of loss on top rim near Eshu face. Age-commensurate surface wear, small areas of loss around peripheries and to carved exterior border, some abrasions and signs of use, fading to surface pigmentation, with light earthen deposits, mineral deposits, and brown patina throughout.