Esu Dance Staff (Ogo Elegbara) c. mid to late 19th century

This "Esu Dance Staff (Ogo Elegbara)" is a Yoruba sculpture dating back to the mid to late 19th century and housed at The Art Institute of Chicago. The staff depicts Esu, a Yoruba deity often associated with trickery and chaos. He is depicted in the center, standing with a staff and surrounded by two smaller figures that represent his attendants. The staff is likely used in rituals and dances connected to Esu, who is believed to be a powerful force in the Yoruba pantheon. The carved wooden figures exhibit a distinctive Yoruba aesthetic, known for its bold and expressive forms, and are a testament to the artistic traditions of the Yoruba people.