Ogboni Society Figure c. 20th century

Curator: This is an Ogboni Society Figure, dating from around the 20th century, a bronze sculpture hailing from the Yoruba people. It is currently located at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Editor: My first impression is of its gravity. The smooth bronze feels incredibly solid, almost like a relic, and the pose projects quiet authority. Curator: Indeed. Ogboni societies held significant socio-political and religious power amongst the Yoruba. Their visual culture, including these figures, represented Earth, morality and ancestral authority. Editor: So this figure isn’t just aesthetic; it functioned within a specific power structure? Was its presence constant, or brought out on specific occasions? Also, let’s talk bronze. How do these objects affect local economy or the perception of artists. Curator: The figure's presence was tied to the Ogboni society’s rituals and meetings; it embodies the society’s role as guardians of ethical conduct within the community. Bronze casting speaks volumes about the availability of resources and technical knowledge within Yoruba society. Editor: It’s fascinating how materials carry meaning. The weight and sheen of bronze speak to endurance and value. Was the labor involved in its creation specialized? How did its creation reflect social standing or reinforce craft hierarchies? Curator: The ‘lost wax’ casting method employed was certainly the work of specialized guilds. It's through their hands and knowledge that objects gained not only materiality but also cultural prestige, enhancing the standing of the patrons commissioning such work. The images the Ogboni society circulate project certain desired effects in alignment with their own political ambitions. Editor: So, the figure wasn’t simply about the individual artistry, but also the patronage, the materials, and the craft traditions upholding those in power. Curator: Precisely, these figures embody a nexus of cultural, political, and material dynamics. Editor: It adds layers to our understanding. The sculpture becomes more than just something beautiful. Thanks for sharing your expertise! Curator: My pleasure! Viewing art through different lenses enriches the experience.