Identification
Title
Oriki Peule
Production Date
2020
Object Number
2020.142
Credit Line
Collection Pérez Art Museum Miami, gift of The55Project Art Foundation
Copyright
© Nádia Taquary
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Physical Qualities
Medium
Centenary ipê wood, Nigerian lagidibás beads, glass beads, and copper
Dimensions
18 x 10 x 6 inches
Visual Description
Oriki Peule is a wall-mounted sculptural work by Nádia Taquary, made in 2020. The work is made of Centenary ipê wood, Nigerian lagidibás beads, glass beads, and copper. Centenary ipê wood refers to ipê hardwood from ancient, mature trees—often over 100 years old, hence the term centenary. Ipê (pronounced ee-pay) is one of the world’s most rigid and durable woods, native to Central and South America, particularly Brazil. Due to its density and dark, elegant appearance, it’s often called “Brazilian walnut” in the lumber trade. Lagidibás beads are a traditional and culturally significant beadwork from Nigeria, particularly associated with the Yorùbá people. These beads are often used in royal regalia, ceremonial attire, and religious contexts. The piece measures 18 x 10 x 6 inches and is hung on the wall at eye level, with its longest dimension from the wall to the viewer. The base of the sculpture is made of centenary ipê wood and is in the shape of the top of a human head. Attached to the “head” are 9 copper wires covered in black beads, intended to resemble braided hair. From the wooden base are 6 copper wires without bead coverings three coming out form the right and three left sides. Each “braid” comes out of the wooden base toward the floor, and all the braids come together at a point, with the ends of each coming toward the viewer. Each “braid” has copper details at the ends.
Nádia Taquary
Nádia Taquary — b. 1967, Salvador, Brazil; lives in Salvador
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