The Symbolic Potentials of Motifs on Yoruba Beaded Crowns

Abstract

The Yoruba monarchical system operates supremacy of power with the use of beaded objects to indicate ranks and wealth. Suffice to say that beads are of inestimable value in Yoruba culture because its use is historic and perhaps, transcends extinction based on it's cultural value and record. This paper therefore, explores the basis for the use of particular motifs (rendered in beads) on these great works of historical, cultural and socio-political values and their symbolic potentials in Yoruba culture. It examines the relationship between ori (head) and crown in relation to Yoruba culture. It groups Yoruba crowns Into two: Agba Ade (the tall and conical type) and Orikogbofo (the caplike type). It identifies four main motifs on the crown and describes one as material (veils) and the other three as iconic (groups of birds). Extolling the power of the motifs in Yoruba monarchical system, the paper submits that the statuses of Yoruba kings are determined by the number of icons (motifs) on their crowns. The paper concludes by asserting that irrespective of any changes in the Yoruba society, the institution of kingship will remain with continuous making of beaded crowns adorned with symbolically and potentially driven motifs in response to socio-cultural demands of the Yoruba society at that time. Keywords: Symbolic, Potential, Motif, Yoruba, Beaded Crown. Aims Research Journal Reference Format: Ajayi, J.B. (2023): The Symbolic Potentials of Motifs on Yoruba Beaded Crowns. Advances in Multidisciplinary and Scientific Research Journal Vol. 9. No. 4. Pp 35-43 www.isteams.net/aimsjournal. dx.doi.org/10.22624/AIMS/V9N3P4