Eshu

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Place of Origin: Yoruba, Nigeria
Size: 15" high
Date: ca. 1900
Material: Wood, bronze, leather

A messenger and mediator between gods and men, and the deity of disharmony, Eshu, is the trickster and mischief maker in Yoruba lore. A rich mythology surrounds the contradictory character of Eshu, who is both lovable and dangerous, personifying that which cnnot be explained. Eshu's attributesinclude a long, curved headdress, sometimes with a face at the tip, a flute, medicine gourds, and strands of cowry shells. Eshu staffs are carried by his devotees in festivals and dances.