Yoruba Opon Ifá or Divination Board

Powder on a tray. A babalawo’s finger. Signs appear.

This is an opon Ifa, a divination board, carved by the Yoruba of Nigeria in the 20th century. In Ifa divination, the diviner spreads powder over the flat surface and marks signs in it to consult the oracle. The border traditionally includes the face of Eshu, the messenger deity. This oval board has a broad raised border carved in relief with birds, interlaced bands, crosshatched panels and stylized motifs, darkened in the recesses.

The central field is smooth and pale, worn from use, with a fine crack across it. Fourteen inches across. On a wall, it asks questions.