Mammals · The Hyena Men from Nigeria

The Gadawan Kura

Ritual Performers in Nigerian cities with hyenas, pythons, and baboons

Crocuta crocuta, Python sebae, Papio anubis

This fascinating illustration from atelier Curiosa Naturalis depicts the Gadawan Kura, or "Hyena Men," of Nigeria, offering a window into their unique cultural practices. The plate masterfully showcases the intricate relationship between humans and several African species, including the Spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta), African Rock Python (Python sebae), and Olive Baboon (Papio anubis). Detailed anatomical studies complement the primary scenes, featuring a canid skull with its carnivore dentition, intricate snake scales highlighting Jacobson's organ, a primate hand, and distinct ischial callosities. The inclusion of a neem tree further grounds the piece in its regional context, reflecting local flora and potential ethnobotanical uses. The artwork thoughtfully blends zoological accuracy with cultural narrative, serving as a valuable record of both biological features and a unique human-animal symbiosis within an urban environment. It features the distinctive ochre and sepia tones characteristic of traditional natural history plates. This piece transcends mere observation, emphasising the critical need for ethnobiological research and conservation efforts concerning both wildlife and indigenous cultural practices. Ideal for educational institutions, editorial content, or as a distinguished framed print, this plate offers a compelling visual narrative for enthusiasts of natural history, anthropology, and African wildlife. It provides an academic yet accessible exploration of a remarkable cultural phenomenon, making it a significant addition to any collection focused on mammals, reptiles, or urban ecology.

Region

Nigeria

Year

2021

Dimensions

3520 × 4800 px

Format

JPG

File size

16 MB