Dada Arowogun (Areogun)

Areogun, a distinguished sculptor from the village of Osi, located in the Ekiti region of northeastern Nigeria, embodies one of the major figures in Yoruba art at the turn of the 20th century. Born in 1880 under the name Dada, he was later honored with the praise name “Aerõgun-yanna,” which translates to “the one who obtains money through Ogun's tools and spends it generously” (Carroll, 1966, p. 79). This designation is significant, as Ogun is the deity of iron among the Yoruba, protector of blacksmiths, warriors, hunters, and, of course, sculptors, who find in this worship a source of power and inspiration.

In the panegyrics dedicated to Areogun, he is described as “the expert whose sculptures dazzle the viewer,” but also as “the one who knows how to carve adequately for kings” (Pemberton, 1994, p. 121). His fame, already firmly established in the neighboring villages of Osi, gains wider recognition thanks to the work of Father Carroll, who reveals to a broader audience, particularly art historians, the extent of his talent.

During a career spanning nearly fifty years, Areogun's style evolves significantly. Trained by the master sculptor Bamgbosé, whose influence marks his early work, Areogun gradually emancipates himself after more than fifteen years of apprenticeship to develop a distinctive style characterized by rounder forms and increasing confidence (Carroll, 1966, p. 84). Among the distinctive features of his work, the disproportionately large ears and half-closed eyelids of the Yoruba horseman are particularly emblematic. These characteristics are found in Epa masks, which Carroll illustrates in his book (Carroll, 1966, p. 45, fig. 35).

Areogun's work reflects a rich artistic vision. Through the finesse of his compositions, the subtle patina of his sculptures, and the complexity of his representations, Areogun demonstrates a unique craftsmanship that continues to inspire generations of Yoruba sculptors.

Only a few very rare Ibeji have been made by Areogun himself; they are easily identifiable by their particularly imposing size, standing between 38 and 42 cm tall. Below is an example from the collection of the renowned English dealer Ian Auld: