EYO

Description

One early harmattan-ridden morning in February of 1854, the first procession of the Eyo Masquerade strolled the streets of primordial Lagos. The Eyo festival was in honour of the passing of the great king Oba Akintoye. It was a homage to him even in death. It was believed that the Eyo Masquerade would escort the spirit of the departed king into the afterlife and herald the reign of the new chieftain as ordained by the spiritual guardians and custodians of the Yoruba race. This oil painting encapsulates the spirit and fortitude of the Eyo Masquerade, reminding us of the transitory nature of life and how we should live life to the fullest when we can.