Significance of Ornamentation in Yoruba Traditional Architecture

Abstract

Culture and tradition are vital constituents of traditional architecture. However, in the period of proliferation and moderni sm, traditional architecture is fast disappearing in most parts of Africa due to negligence and incredulity of its importance. Reassessment becomes necessary as traditional architecture can be a source of inspiration even in contemporary times. Through review scoped literature, this study takes a critical look at how culture affects ornaments of architecture in Nigeria with Yoruba as a case study. This paper explores significance of ornamentation in Yoruba palace architecture. This means the creative objects within the old palace (‘afin’) constructed when the city was formed, including the courtyards (‘akodi’) and other structures within the palaces. It concludes with attributes of different palace ornamentation with clear direction on key roles in the study palace cultural belief and traditions. Data was sourced from fieldwork, oral interviews and relevant literature. Purposively selected photographs of palaces ‘Afin’ are used in discussing the state of the architecture and sculpture objects, therefore raises th e enquiry of their connotation for upcoming generations. In other words, ornamentation has a basic statement for which it was created (meaning); the mutual concern and relevance of such artifact, form, or object gives it a name, root and status in addition to identity as the material culture of the designing community. The study reveals the benefits of palace ornament to Yoruba tradition and culture and the importance of culture and history of people if the memories of their past are celebrated and their cenotaphs and antique places of pride are intact. This paper suggests that elements of palace ornaments like art and heritage architecture in Yoruba palace ornamentation have become a natural occurrence.