Ewe (Ghana) Ewe Bocic Wood, cord, gourds, animal skulls

These figures illustrate the direct application of materials to an object's surface in order to enhance empowerment. Mixed media pieces combine several natural materials to empower the object. The existence of intertwined cord represents a common method to attach items to an empowered object. In this case, the cord unites the skulls, gourds, and other natural materials. In Ewe society, the unity of unrelated objects represent humanity's attempt to control forces of nature. In Ewe and Fon cultures, the cord is also associated with life, family and continuity, and time's passage. The gourds used here contain special powders in order to bring about good fortune. Within each gourd, the contents may differ in order to produce desired effects and address specific concerns. Some powders are ingested, blown into the eyes of an enemy, or rubbed onto the carrier's forehead or hands.