At OYASAF, visiting Japanese ethnologist finds interpretation for a glass beads museum piece

In its relentless effort at offering research assistance and partnership with groups, institutions and individuals around the world, OYASAF shared its wealth of experience with a visiting Japanese scholar.

It happened yesterday, Wednesday May 23, 2012, when OYASAF received Professor Kazunobu Ikeya of National Museum of Ethnology, Japan. He visited under the hospices of a representative and Senior Lecturer, Department of Fine Art, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile Ife, Osun State, Steve Folaranmi. 

 Prof Ikeya visited for two main reasons: primarily to view the collection of OYASAF and its library, which is becoming increasingly popular. He also sought assistance for the interpretation of a craft work covered in glass beads, and purchased in South Africa. In the presence of Folaranmi and an OYASAF fellowship grantee, Amanda Hellman, Prof Ikeya presented the brochure of the National Museum of Ethnology that had the bead piece.

Visting Prof Kazunobu Ikeya of National Museum of Ethnology, Japan, OYASAF Fellow, Amanda Hellman of Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S., Omooba Yemisi Shyllon, Chief Mrs Olufunmilayo Shyllon and Steve Folaranmi of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile Ife, Osun State during Ikeya's visit to OYASAF.  

 The work was analysed by the founder of OYASAF, Omooba Yemisi Adedoyin Shyllon, and a conclusion was reached that the work covered in beads represents an effigy for the burial ceremony of an Ooni of Ife. The work was covered in glass beads with the crown of the Ooni and the beads covering the face. The throne had the crown of the Ooni at the background sewn into it in glass beads.

 Thereafter, Prof. Ikeya made a quick tour to some of the collections of OYASAF museum with particular reference to the life size bronze, stone and metal works in the garden and in the swimming pool area. He also did a quick tour of some of the galleries in the museum along with Folaranmi and Hellman.

Ikeya intends to revisit OYASAF sometime later this year for possible collaboration on research.