Yoruba Brass Fan of an Osun Priestess, 20th Century CE
Brass
11.875 x 17.125
PF.5040
Further images
At the time when the sacred waters of orisa Osun are taken in brass bowls from the river to the shrine, the priestess carries her fan as an insignia of...
At the time when the sacred waters of orisa Osun are taken in brass bowls from the river to the shrine, the priestess carries her fan as an insignia of office. As a medator between this world and the "other world", the priestess is able to interpret messages from the river deity Osun to her suppliants in response to their questions. She is also in touch with spirits of nature, using thses natural forces to help people in a variety of ways.
The vertical oblong in the center of this fan is comprised of an intricate pattern of elipses and semi-circles creating a very effective floral motif. Two squares on either side of the oblong shape, with long "necks" and triangular "heads", are between concentric circles composed of seperate dots. The impression of the overall pattern is of dense forest growth, relieved by wide open spaces like the sky.
The vertical oblong in the center of this fan is comprised of an intricate pattern of elipses and semi-circles creating a very effective floral motif. Two squares on either side of the oblong shape, with long "necks" and triangular "heads", are between concentric circles composed of seperate dots. The impression of the overall pattern is of dense forest growth, relieved by wide open spaces like the sky.