Nigerian art

Shango (Yoruba: Ṣàngó) is the Orisha (or deity) of fire, thunder, lightning, virility, dance, drumming, strength and justice in the Yoruba religion. Genealogically, Shango is a royal ancestor of the Yoruba as he was the third Alaafin of the Oyo Empire prior to his posthumous deification. Shango is believed to have numerous manifestations as various historical and legendary figures, including Airá, Agodo, Afonja, Lubé, and Obomin. He is known for his double-headed battle-axe (Oṣé). He is considered to be one of the most powerful rulers that Yorubaland has ever produced.

thumb|Gelede mask from the Yoruba people of Nigeria. Held at the Birmingham Museum of Art thumbnail|Gelede Body Mask thumb|Gelede mask, Afro-Brazilian Museum, São Paulo The Gẹlẹdẹ spectacle of the Yoruba is a public display by colorful masks which combines art and ritual dance to amuse, educate and inspire worship. Gelede celebrates “Mothers” (awon iya wa), a group that includes female ancestors and deities as well as the elderly women of the community, and the power and spiritual capacity these women have in society. Focusing not only on fertility and motherhood but also on correct social beh

thumbnail|Yoruba veranda post, Brooklyn Museum

ceremonial mask worn by the Yoruba people of Nigeria during the Epa masquerade

art of the Yoruba people

archaeological site in Anambra State, Nigeria