Playing at reconciliation

Playing at reconciliation
Toy used as a baby carrier by girls. Porto-Novo, Quemé, Benín © Museo Nacional de Antropología

Playing at reconciliation

The “omo” is a children’s toy which is used differently by boys and girls. Girls carry it hanging on their backs, like mothers do with children. It is the schematic representation of a doll whose ritual function is to favour motherhood among the young Yoruba females.

Foto Miguel Ángel Otero.