Unknown Artist (Yoruba people, West Africa)
Plaque, late 20th century
tropical hardwood
12.5″ x 17.75″ x 1″
Gift of the estate of Mary Gruber. 2013.15
The Yoruba people from West Africa are known to be great wood carvers. Relying on the natural color of the wood, Yoruba wood reliefs are rarely painted. As a result, the carved patterns serve an important role in creating texture and distinguishing different elements of the composition. For example, the seated figure to the left is dressed in a traditionally male hat and wears pants. A zigzag pattern runs across his arms and legs and a diamond pattern covers the chair he sits in. On the right side, a figure wears a traditionally feminine headwrap, or gele, and a skirt. The pattern on her chair and clothing features straight lines. The carved patterns serve as decoration and identifiers of individuals.