Veranda post

early 20th century

Once sited in a palace for Yoruba royalty, this sentinel is holding a flywhisk of leadership. Beneath him, a rough post was embedded in the ground. Above his head is a notched support that held a beam for the veranda's roof. Following Yoruba ideals, the sculptor has paid the most attention to the head, emphasized as the source of clarity. This man's face is fixed in a stare as he concentrates on the dignity of his position as a greeter and guardian, watching people come and go.

Wood with chalk and earth deposits

52 5/16 x 9 3/4 x 10 in. (132.8 x 24.7 x 25.4 cm)

Margaret E. Fuller Purchase Fund

76.34

Now on view at the Seattle Art Museum

Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.

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