Horse and Rider
Artist/Maker
Akan people
(Ghana)
Dateearly 20th century
Mediumwood and paint
DimensionsOverall: 12 1/2 x 4 5/8 x 13 in. (31.8 x 11.7 x 33 cm)
ClassificationsVisual Works
Credit LineGift of Jo Ann and Alan Lederman
Terms
Object number83.0174
DescriptionRiding is a metaphor for the ability to harness or control power, either secular power – rulers parading on horseback – or spirit power – spirits “mounting” the heads of their devotees. The white color on this horse and rider indicates a spiritual state. Sculptures such as this are placed on the shrines of healing priests and priestesses in Akan societies as images of their helping spirits.On View
Not on viewCollections
ca. 1675