This sculpture depicts Modjadji while calling the rain. Her secret rain medicine is stored in the earthen rain pots (mehago) depicted at the base of the sculpture. The magic rain horns are filled with the rain potion, which produces smoke when burnt. The smoke rises up in the air to form rain clouds. When the horns are put on the ground, the rain falls. When it is hung up, the rain stops and the weather becomes fine. The gomana drums, when beaten, are also believed to call the rain. The carvings around the base of the sculpture are authentic representations of the symbols around the queen’s courtyard.
Owing to Modjadji’s secrecy and the fact that no representation of her ceremonial dress is available in literature, Tienie used his imagination and knowledge of African cultures to create her ceremonial dress. The decoration on the ‘belt’ around her hips is made of Marula seedpods that resemble small skulls to symbolise the sacrificial nature of her ritual
Dimensions: 1,17 m high
Bronze
Series of 15