Lot: 247

Online Auction

Divination tray "opon ifa"

Nigeria, Yoruba

Provenance Size Starting price / estimated price
Peter Stoffers, Kiel, Germany D: 13.8 inch / 14.6 inch 150 EUR
plus 27 % commission, VAT, transport and insurance

wood,
During the divination process, a "babalawo" spreads a layer of wood flour "iyerosun" - created by termites, across the surface of the "opon Ifa". Sixteen sacred palm nuts (or a divination chain - "opele ifa") are shaken to reveal wisdom and communication from "Orunmila". These verses ("odu") are then transferred onto the dusted tray, translated and recited by the "babalawo" for the client to reflect upon and take action.