Opon Ifa, tray for divination. Yoruba, Nigeria

Agere Ifa, divination bowl. Yoruba, Nigeria, late 19th-early 20th century.
Wood.
Measurements: 29,3 cm. diameter.

The Opon Ifa is a central piece in the spiritual tradition of the Yoruba people, used in the divination system known as Ifa. It is a ceremonial wooden tray that has both a functional and symbolic meaning within the Yoruba religious practices. The one we are dealing with is carved on its eaves with synthetic figures and large-eyed faces. The circular shape symbolizes the totality of the universe and the connection between the spiritual and the earthly. The Opon Ifa is used exclusively by Babalawos (Ifa priests) during divination ceremonies. This system seeks spiritual guidance and answers to important questions through the interpretation of patterns created with sacred palm seeds (ikín) or cowrie shells.

The Yoruba are one of the African ethnic groups whose cultural heritage and identity are most recognized. With respect to the Yoruba social structure, we must comment that it is a highly hierarchical society, in a clearly pyramidal form, where the greatest importance falls on the figure of the king and behind him a High Council that determines the social life of the rest of the components of the community. This structure is uncommon in African city-states and the most interesting thing is that the figure of the king himself has power over life and death. His own life is essential to the welfare of the people. If he is satisfied, so are his subjects. He is the life force of the state.