African Art

Altar of the Hand, 17th century
Bronze
Unknown Edo artist
Kingdom of Benin, Nigeria
Museum purchase, Preston Pope Satterwhite Fund 1970.14

Benin altars of the hand are dedicated to the power of the right hand, because it is the right hand that does important things like hold a tool or weapon and offer sacrifices to the gods. The four female figures on this altar are depicted wearing garments made of red coral beads, signaling their connection to the Benin court. They carry musical instruments; music is often used to alert the ancestors to prepare to receive messages from the world of the living. The altar helps bring about success in all endeavors.