Headdress (Jagún Jagún)
Yoruba
Mid– late 19th century
Medium
Wood, iron, nails, fiber, and sacrificial materials
Dimensions
H.: 111.8 cm (44 in.)
Classification
headdress
Department
Arts of Africa
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
155956
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
This imposing sculptural headdress would have been worn in masquerades honoring Ogun, the Yoruba god of iron, warfare, and technology. It was also part of a shrine where offerings of yams were applied to its surface. Ogun is depicted as a warrior on horseback who carries a shield with four human heads, possibly slain enemies. The smaller figure playing a flute represents Eshu, the divine messenger and god of human destiny.