Esu-Eleba shrine/dance staff
(Ogo Elegbe)
Place of Origin: Nigeria
Cultural Group: Yoruba peoples
Materials Used: Wood, shells, mirror, metal bells, gourd, leather, seed pods, chain, yarn
Date: 1991
Dimensions: H: 44 cm, W: 25 cm, D: 28 cm (H: 17.3 in, W: 9.8 in, D: 11.0 in)
Credit Line and Accession Number: Fowler Museum at UCLA. Gift of Helen and Dr. Robert Kuhn. X91.350

Placed on the altar when not used during processions or dances, this ogo Elegba is bedecked with the implements and materials that suggest the deity’s attributes and prerogatives (carved staffs/clubs, spoon, fan gourd. etc.). The staff is beaded with palm kernals, the oil of which is Esu-Eleba’s favorite liquid.

Source: Drewal, H., Mason, J. (1998). “Beads, Body, and Soul = Art and Light in the Yoruba Universe”, Los Angeles: UCLA Fowler Museum of Cultural History. page 26