Ritual Staff
Yoruba, Nigeria
Early 20th century
Old American collection
This staff or wand is called ‘Shango’ by the Yoruba people referencing the god it symbolizes. The surface has a bluish tint from having been rubbed with Reckitt’s Blue laundry powder. The sculptor was commissioned to create a version with several heads most likely giving it an ‘all seeing’ purpose or power. From all angles this object impresses but the side profile is especially strong; the heads have a slight downward casting look that gives this object a sense of elegance, balancing its bold aesthetic.
Ritual Staff
Yoruba, Nigeria
Early 20th century
Old American collection
This staff or wand is called ‘Shango’ by the Yoruba people referencing the god it symbolizes. The surface has a bluish tint from having been rubbed with Reckitt’s Blue laundry powder. The sculptor was commissioned to create a version with several heads most likely giving it an ‘all seeing’ purpose or power. From all angles this object impresses but the side profile is especially strong; the heads have a slight downward casting look that gives this object a sense of elegance, balancing its bold aesthetic.