|
 |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
COLLECTIONS
Highlights of the Collection | About the Collection | Recent Acquisitions | Collection Timeline | Conservation
HIGHLIGHTS
African | Ancient | American | Ancient Americas | European | 20th Century | Judaic | Oceanic | Virtual Tour | Shockwave
African Collection
 |
Nigeria, Yoruba Beaded Crown, 20th century Glass beads, cloth, thread, and basketry, H. 20 3/8 in. (51.7 cm.) Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Hanes, 77.2.10 © NCMA Among the Yoruba, each oba (ruler) has authority over a city-state, a city or town and its surrounding territories. For ceremonial occasions, the oba wears a conical beaded crown. Its elongated shape emphasizes the head, which the Yoruba believe to be the center of a person’s intelligence, character, and spirituality. The faces on either side of the crown may refer to ancestors of the oba, but they also serve as a reminder that the oba sees and hears all, even what takes place behind his back. Other designs include an interlace pattern symbolic of the ruler’s power and zigzag motifs representing energy and/or the lightning bolts of the god Shango. |
Visitor Information |
Exhibitions |
Events & Activities |
Collections |
The Museum Park
Education & Museum Services |
Press Room |
Support the Museum |
Membership |
Contact Us
What's New | Calendar | Buy Tickets | Museum Store | Museum Restaurant & Catering | Site Map | Home