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The Yoruba cosmos is divided between the world of the living on earth (aye) and the realm of the spirits in heaven (orun). Hundreds of orișa (deities) populate orun, including ancient gods, nature spirits, and deified ancestors. Orișa vary from calm (cool) to more volatile (hot) in temperament, and they influence the world of the living in positive and negative ways.
Eșu, the divine messenger, navigates between humans in aye and other deities in orun to resolve problems. On the crest behind Eșu’s head, two other faces represent his presence in the spirit world and evoke his capacity to exist in both worlds simultaneously. In this figure, Eșu’s mutability is also represented by the figure’s dual gender. Although generally benevolent, Eșu has a trickster side that can cause trouble if he is not treated properly. Cultivating a good relationship with Eșu is crucial for a person’s success in life. This figure was likely commissioned for a shrine dedicated to the deity in order to win his favor.Label Type
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Saint Joseph's University purchase