Monumental Yoruba Beaded Crown (Ade) With Figures, Nigeria, Mid-20th Century

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Description

A striking and highly sculptural Yoruba beaded crown (Ade), hand-crafted in Nigeria and richly adorned with dense red glass beadwork. … Read more A striking and highly sculptural Yoruba beaded crown (Ade), hand-crafted in Nigeria and richly adorned with dense red glass beadwork. This monumental ceremonial crown features a vertical, tiered form populated with multiple stylized figures encircling the body, culminating in a prominent bird finial at the crown’s apex—an important symbol of spiritual authority and divine oversight in Yoruba kingship traditions.

The surface is meticulously covered in tightly strung red beads over a textile foundation, with applied figural elements projecting outward in rhythmic layers. Original white bead eyes, articulated limbs, and expressive forms give the piece remarkable dimensionality and presence. Long beaded fringe descends from the lower edge, adding movement and visual drama.

Traditionally reserved for Yoruba kings (Oba), beaded crowns such as this were used in sacred and courtly contexts and were powerful symbols of political, spiritual, and ancestral authority. Today, examples of this scale and complexity are highly sought after by collectors of African art, designers, and institutions.

Mounted on a custom black metal display stand, this piece presents as a sculptural object suitable for display in an entry hall, gallery setting, or as a dramatic focal point in a curated interior. See less