Igbesamwan Wood Carving Pt. 3: Shaping the Object

About the interview
Object ProductionObject Context

The object takes on the conical shape, which is the shape of Oko. The traditional motifs which are carved on the Oko make it different from ordinary wood. The motif signifies the ritual importance the Benin people attached to the use of Oko. The first motif is the Oba (Obanuri), which is symbolic of the complexity of life, forming an infinitum that has no beginning and no end. This motif is a sign of the unfathomable mystery of life.

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Referenced in this interview

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