Female Figure with Bowl
Late 19th century
Wood, beads, and traces of pigment
19 × 31.7 cm (7.5 × 12.5 in)
SEE IT IN PERSON
Not currently on view
In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026
Discussion
FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG
This figure was made for a shrine dedicated to one of the Yoruba orisa (deities)—possibly Shango, who is associated with the power of thunderstorms, warriors, and kings. The woman’s expression of concentration, her crisp features and incised details, and the energetic pose of the child are characteristic of the acclaimed sculptor Abogunde of Ede. The figure is at once an offering, a container for offerings, and the representation of a devotee presenting an offering.
Be the first to share your thoughts.
Sign in to join the discussion.
More like this
Olowe of Ise — Veranda Post (Òpó Ògògá)
Bamileke — Portrait Figure of Metang, the 10th King of Batuf
Luluwa — Mother-and-Child Figure (Bwanga bwa Chibola)
Chinesco — Polychrome Standing Figure with Exaggerated Head 
Fang — Head
Dogon — Male Figure
Hemba — Ritual Head
Yoruba — Tapper (Iroke Ifa)
Edo — Head (Uhunmwun Elao)
Yoruba — Mask for Egungun (Ere Egungun)
Tlatilco — Female Figure
Nayarit — Standing Female Figure