“House of the Head” Yoruban Headdress (Ile Ori)

Nigeria

Early 20th century

Fiber, cotton, cowrie shells, mirrors, wood

The Yoruba believe that the head is the embodiment of a person’s character, intellect, personal power, and destiny. The Ile Ori acts as a shrine for the head, reinforcing the belief in its sacredness and honoring the wearer’s god-given abilities. The cowrie shells are a reminder of the owner’s prestige and wealth, and the mirrors protect him spiritually from evil. As well, the Ile Ori can be used in ceremonial practices to help determine one’s path in life, destiny, and fate.