Yoruba cities are often dominated by extensive, centrally located palaces with verandas and courtyards. Roofs are supported by wooden posts, sometimes carved with images of royal stability and power. Obembe Alaye carved this pair for the Efon-Alaye palace. Each post is composed of one warrior and two female figures. All are large-headed and sharp-featured three-dimensional forms encased in a darkened patina of red, green, and black paint. Three of the women hold infants; one warrior is on horseback; the other bears a spear and musket. One base is rectangular, the other dome-shaped, and the tops terminate with reliefs of spears.

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