Yoruba or Wurkun Figural Staff weaving The precise arrangement of seeds

The precise arrangement of seeds and gossypol glands in these illustrations reflects the deep botanical knowledge of these ancient cultures

An absolutely gorgeous stoneware bottle featuring a globular body and a corseted neck that swells outward before tapering inward to a circular

Such vessels were buried with their openings facing downward

and upturned tail

Legend and Reality: Early Ceramics from South-East Asia

Yoruba or Wurkun Figural Staff weaving The precise arrangement of seedsYoruba or Wurkun people, early 20th century, Nigeria, West Africa Fascinating and boldly carved fragment of a processional staff, displaying powerful presence despite its weathered condition. The form consists of a sturdy conical pillar surmounted by a female figurepossibly a priestessrendered in a strikingly abstract and highly stylized manner. The head is sharply geometric, with ears, nose, and mouth simplified into angular, almost architectural