Eshu rider. Yoruba, Nigeria, early 20th century.

Eshu rider. Yoruba, Nigeria, early 20th century.
Wood, mounted cowrie shells.
Provenance:
- Old Danish collection, collected in situ in the 1960s.
Measurements: 28 cm (height).

The richness of the attire of this sculpture of Eshu (one of the multiple orisha gods) and the strict and determined bearing of the rider highlight the distinguished character of the Yoruba people. The figures of horsemen and horses were usual in the Yoruba culture. In fact, the equestrian figure is often found among the sculptures in shrines to honor, commemorate and embody various orishas. According to Peter Morton-Williams, the sculptors of such representations were familiar with standard Yoruba cavalry equipment (harnesses, reins, saddles, stirrups).

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 greater 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.