Ogoni Bronze Figurine / Ogboni Nigeria -

An ornate figure carries a creature on its back. This bronze figurine, with prominent features, appears to be a pendant. It may have been accompanied by a similar figure of the opposite sex. The Ogboni or Oshugbo secret society of the Yoruba worships the Owner of the Earth, Onilè (it is still active today). Some have suggested that the female and male representations may allude to the sky as a male entity and the earth symbolizing femininity, or to the founding couple of human society. Although some Ogboni works are made of wood, terracotta, or ivory, those in bronze have a connection with Osun, god of tools and weapons. The Ogboni expression, "Ogbodirin" means "Grow old and always be as strong as iron."