Writing board, second half of 20th century, 20 5/8 × 9 1/8 × 7/8 in. ( × × cm), Wood, pigments, leather, Nigeria, 20th century, This board with colorful representations of stylized animals in combination with words, numbers, and geometric shapes, is called allo kafi gida. This term in the Nigerian Hausa language means 'home protection board.' Custom-made by a specialized Muslim cleric-artist, the board is kept hidden by the head of the family as a talisman—an object held to act as a charm to avert evil and bring good fortune—that protects him and his family.

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Size: 4017px × 7708px
Location:
Photo credit: © Penta Springs / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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