Art Institute of Chicago

Headdress (Jagún Jagún)

Yòrùbá

Date

Mid– late 19th century

Medium

Wood, iron, nails, fiber, and sacrificial materials

Culture

Nigeria

Department

Arts of Africa

Institution

Art Institute of Chicago

This imposing sculptural headdress would have been worn in masquerades honoring Ogun, the Yoruba god of iron, warfare, and technology. It was also part of a shrine where offerings of yams were applied to its surface. Ogun is depicted as a warrior on horseback who carries a shield with four human heads, possibly slain enemies. The smaller figure playing a flute represents Eshu, the divine messenger and god of human destiny.

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