Cup

Yoruba peoples, Owo, Nigeria
Late 17th century
Ivory
Height 18.2 cm (7 3/16 in.)
Private collection

Provenance
Leloup Gallery, Paris and New York
Private collection,
United States

Photograph by
Franko Khoury

The works of artists from Owo were practically unknown until 1951. The dark color, produced by rubbing with red palm oil, enhances the appearance of the cup. The specific function, while unknown, is associated with the Owo king who may wear a conical crown into which two feathers are stuck.