Tapper

Yoruba (Ifa) Divination Tapper

Nigeria
Yoruba

Bronze
Pre-20th century

Height: 29cm / Length: 6cm / Width: 6cm
Idiophone - Struck Directly

This bronze Ifa tapper ('Iroke Ifa') was used by the diviner, a “father of ancient wisdom" called the Babalawo (pronounced Baba-a-láwo). The diviner would use the bottom tapper-part by striking the center of the divination tray to summons the cosmic forces and to bring emphasizes to parts of the Ifa’s orature. The top part is a bell with a clapper inside. This provided a different sound for invocations and songs during the ceremonies. The male face shows a short beard and scarification on both cheeks that may indicate the regional, community, or lineal affiliations, royal/non-royal status. Divination has existed throughout the world for thousands of years. The Yoruba people practice Divination (Ifa) to explain misfortunes and to help prevent them.

Owner:
Catalog#: AF-IDST-151

© Hartenberger World Music Collection