Journal for Learning through the Arts

Much has been written on the history of Abeokuta and their artworks since their occupation of Abeokuta. Yoruba works of art are in Museums and private collections abroad. Many Museums in the Western part of Nigeria including the National Museum in Abeokuta also have works of art on display, however, much of these are not specific to Abeokuta. In particular this research unravels a mix up in international documentation of Abeokuta works. Writers on Abeokuta works of art include both foreign and Nigerian scholars. This research uses Historical theory to study works of art collected and preserved on Abeokuta since inception of the Egba, Owu and Yewa (Egbado) occupation of the town and the implications for development in the 21^st century. The study involved the collection of data from primary sources within Abeokuta in addition to secondary sources for information on the varied works of art including amongst others Ifa and Ogboni paraphernalia, as well as records of artefact collected through wars. The research unravelled germane works that have not been written on.  However, the study also unravels that very little is done to improve on the indigenous technologies through the introduction of modern machinery for production. Recommendations are given for better production without undermining the cultural identity of the people to promote tourism and industrialisation for the development of the town and mass employment of millions of its teeming youths