Sango Staff: Male Figure (Ose Sango)
During his lifetime, Duga was recognized as Meko's most talented sculptor. Both Duga's father and grandfather had been woodcarvers. His father also occupied an important position within the Gelede society, a major patron of sculptural works that subsequently sponsored Duga's apprenticeship. Duga received his training as a boy under a master carver at Ketu, an important art center. In return, it was understood that Duga would carve Gelede masks without charge, though he would be allowed to keep fees for commissions made by worshipers of other deities, such as Sango.
Artwork Details
- Title: Sango Staff: Male Figure (Ose Sango)
- Artist: Duga of Meko (Nigerian, Yoruba, 1880–1960)
- Date: ca. 1880–1960
- Geography: Nigeria, Ketu region, Meko
- Culture: Yoruba peoples
- Medium: Wood, pigment
- Dimensions: H. 15 3/8 x W. 5 1/4 x D. 3 1/8 in. (39.1 x 13.3 x 7.9 cm)
- Classification: Wood-Sculpture
- Credit Line: Gift of Ernst Anspach, 1983
- Object Number: 1983.473
- Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing
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