West Africa, Nigeria, Yoruba peoples, early 20th century CE. A forged iron staff topped with a ring of small peacock-like birds standing around a central bird on an iron ring. The birds are stylized but wonderfully depicted. These iron staffs are used in Yoruba society by traditional doctors to protect and heal the sick. The large bird in the center is Osanyin, a Yoruba deity who is associated with medicine and divination. The birds surrounding Osanyin represent the evil female spirts who are malevolent forces that steal vitality from people in the community. A doctor would put this staff into the ground near a sick person. Originally, this piece would have had sixteen birds; sixteen is a powerful spiritual number for the Yoruba. Comes with custom stand. Size: 7" W x 20.25" H (17.8 cm x 51.4 cm)

Provenance: Ex-Adeon Gallery, Chicago, IL, acquired prior to 1970.

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#118401

Iron patina; missing three birds from one side.