32.5x15”
Beads and Leather

Circa 20th Century AD
The fine beaded work on the front flap depicts two nearly identical faces on the upper portion. Light blue beads provide the background, with read noses, three vertical lines of red scarification on each cheek, and white eyes with black centers. These faces are abstract representations of the diety or dieties whom the diviner serves. At the bottom are three chameleons in aqua beads with red eyes. Chameleons are symbols of cleverness and admired for their ability to change themselves to suit the surroundings. Yoruba diviners, including the priest of Ira, are primarily for kings. Wishing the bag (apo ifa), the diviner carries the essential tools of his trade, including a divining chain (opele ifa) and palm nuts, which he uses to communicate with spirits in order to advise his patients / supplicants. The power and beauty of this page attests to the skills of both the diviner and the artist who created the lovely beaded images.

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