In this gallery talk, guest co-curator Philip M. Peek, Professor Emeritus of Anthropology at Drew University, New Jersey, explores the small cast bronze ofo in Summoning the Ancestors, which stand for an adult Igbo man’s personal integrity and moral authority, and link him to his ancestors. Used in rituals and kept on shrines, mystery surrounds the makers of these delicate and highly ornamented personal bronzes.

Related Exhibition
Summoning the Ancestors celebrates a promised gift of bronze bells and ofo amassed by Mark Clayton, and underscores the potential of a large collection to demonstrate variations of technique and symbolism within a single genre. Originating in southern Nigeria, the bells and ofo were used in a variety of ritual contexts.

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#CultureFix is a short-format series of gallery talks featuring artists, curators, and other luminaries. No reservation required. All talks are free of charge.

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