Veranda Post 

The Yoruba artist Olowe of Ise carved this veranda post, likely in the early 20th century, from a single piece of wood. The material’s inherent qualities – its density and grain – dictated the carving process, demanding both precision and force. Consider the labor involved: Olowe skillfully balanced representation with abstraction, using sharp tools to create detailed surface textures, contrasting with smooth facial planes. Notice how these techniques bring the figure to life, emphasizing its regal bearing and the weight of its responsibilities. The post was then painted, adding another layer of visual complexity. Veranda posts like these were not simply decorative. They were structural elements, integral to the architecture of Yoruba palaces. By embedding figures in the wood, Olowe transformed an everyday object into a powerful statement of social and cultural values. Ultimately, the post reminds us that ‘art’ can be found in the intersection of function and representation.