Egungun - costume The Ode - costume

Egungun (the returned dead person) is worshiped in the traditional society of the Yoruba. According to their tradition, ancestors return from the hereafter to be honoured. The Yoruba people cultivate their belief of resurrection through different rites. There are different types of Egungun,too. However, the Egungun is in general regarded as a fun - maker. His appearance in public arouses the interest of many people. Egungun is therefore not only the children`s friend, but also the adults`. He dances to the sound of Gangan or Ogbon drums in his colourful garment, that is decorated with glittering pearls. Children admire the Egungun and accompany him by clapping their hands. In spite of  his attraction to many people he is to be feared: He is a god and deserves to be respected deeply, therefore he is holy. Egungun`s garment is considered as horrifying, so non - initiated are not allowed to touch it, otherwise it would lead to their death. That is why every appearance of the Egungun is guarded by serveral lifeguards, armed with sticks. Entering the Egungun - cloister, called Igbale, is strictly forbidden for the non - initiated. If someone still enters,he will be at the mercy of Mariwo`s beatings (the Egungun`s servers). That is how people are prevented from violating the dead.

Artist: unknown
Origin: Yoruba, Benin, Nigeria
Material: textiles, fur
Size: 170cm high