Yoruba Opon Ifa Divination Tray

This ceremonial wooden divination tray, Opon Ifa, from the Yoruba people of Nigeria was used in religious practice by a diviner, Babalawo, to communicate and restore harmony with the spirits. The face of Esu, the messenger of Ifa, adorns the top of the tray while each corner also has further representations of Esu. The degree of intricacy in the carvings framing the Opon Ifa correspond to the status of the Babalawo. This piece was reserved for high status diviners and shows wear from decades of use.

19th Century

Dimensions: 10 in. tall, 10 in. wide