Univell in Ulbro (Prayer Oil Applicator)

Object/Artifact

-

The Civilization of Llhuros

UNIVELL IN ULBRO (Prayer Oil Applicator in Container) | circa 1966-71 | photo by Ann Cady, 2024 | ©2026 Norman Daly Art: A striking geometric artifact composed of multiple nested hexagonal frames arranged concentrically, each varying in size, crafted from a rich, dark wood which contrasts elegantly against the muted gray background; at the center of this complex yet harmonious structure lies a small, ornate ivory emblem, adding a touch of intricate artistry and a focal point to the piece, highlighting the balance between natural materials and human craftsmanship, resulting in a visually captivating and thought-provoking artifact that invites viewers to ponder its meaning.
UNIVELL IN ULBRO (Prayer Oil Applicator in Container) | circa 1966-71 | photo by Ann Cady, 2024 | ©2026 Norman Daly Art

A striking geometric artifact composed of multiple nested hexagonal frames arranged concentrically, each varying in size, crafted from a rich, dark wood which contrasts elegantly against the muted gray background; at the center of this complex yet harmonious structure lies a small, ornate ivory emblem, adding a touch of intricate artistry and a focal point to the piece, highlighting the balance between natural materials and human craftsmanship, resulting in a visually captivating and thought-provoking artifact that invites viewers to ponder its meaning.

Name/Title

Univell in Ulbro (Prayer Oil Applicator)

Entry/Object ID

COL.82

Description

This ivory univell in a sexangular wooden ulbro (box) was found in secular quarters at Draikum; therefore it is more reasonable to believe that it was owned by a wealthy aristocrat than by a high priest.Prayer oils would have been kept in such a container.

Category

Middle Period, Draikum

Made/Created

Artist

Norman Daly

Date made

circa 1966 - 1971

Place

Academic Institution

Cornell University

City

Ithaca, New York

Continent

North America

Ethnography

Cultural Region

Region

Asia Minor

Culture/Tribe

Llhuros

Dimensions

Height

18-1/2 in

Width

16-1/8 in

Depth

4 in

Materials

Material

Ivory, Wood

Material Notes

Fictional (and actual) media as described by Norman Daly in the 1972 catalog and exhibition tags.

Acquisition

Notes

This object is a unique element of the "Civilization of Llhuros" collection given to the Cornell University Anthropology Collaboratory in 2026.

Exhibitions

Akron Art Institute (1972)
Cornell University | A.D. White Museum of Art (1972)
Indianapolis Art Museum (1972)
Istanbul Biennial, 16th | "The Seventh Continent" (2019)
Memorial Art Gallery | University of Rochester (1972)
Roberson Center for Art and Science, Binghamton, NY (1974)
Romische-Germanisches Museum | "Projekt '74" | Cologne Germany (1974)
SUNY Albany | Art Gallery (1973}
University of Pennsylvania Art Museum, Philadelphia (1974)