
The Uki (moon) is said to be associated with coolness, peace, and joy and to be more important than even Owẹn (the sun) ( ; ). The behaviour and nature of the moon were and are studied by the Iwoki, the guild of astrologists and meteorologists established by Ọba Esigie (c. 1504–50).
The Uki is usually depicted in crescent or half-moon form and appears on some of the Ama-Ẹrọnmwọn (bronze relief plaques), sometimes on its own as a corner motif and at other times as part of compositions with figures identified as being part of the Iwoki. Crescent forms of the moon are also used as part of the motifs decorating textiles and clothing worn by figures.
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