Vintage African Yoruba crown, beaded, conical with bead veil, surmounted by beaded birds, on stand. Approx. 40" from tip of bird to base of veil. Acquired in 1998 from Hamidu Sellah, who estimated age at late 1900s. Maker once known.

This vintage Yoruba Tribe beaded crown (adenla) is from Nigeria, West Africa. When a Yoruba oba, dons an adénlá, it is a ritual signifying that the oba is connected to his ancestors and gods.

The beaded veil is intended to shield observers from the immense spiritual power emanating from eye contact with the oba. The birds represent Okin the royal Bird. and are symbolic of older women in the tribe who provide council to the oba.
40” h #AGE481

If you are interested in indigenous art from tribes outside of those featured in these pages, click on these text links to view tribal art categories on other web sites:

American Indian pottery and Native baskets

Native American jewelry and carvings

Use your back browser to return the last previous page you have visited.