staff-like object with curved head piece from which extend 17 pieces with curls on end; flat pieces at end of staff and in midst of curled pieces; striated design on flat side of staff handle

Iron currency, 1900-1950

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Ironexpand_more

Gift of funds from Beverly Grossmanexpand_more  2019.44.7

This ritual staff, held aloft during preburial ceremonies, combines the curvature of a sickle with the blade of an ax. In their visual references to tools of labor, such staffs symbolize hard work, as well as the contributions of the deceased to community welfare. The curled spikes welded along the top give this staff the nickname “rooster iron.” Because these spikes resemble the shape of certain traditional local currencies, the implement itself is often wrongly identified as a means of payment.

Details
Title
Iron currency
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2019.44.7
Curator Approved

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staff-like object with curved head piece from which extend 17 pieces with curls on end; flat pieces at end of staff and in midst of curled pieces; striated design on flat side of staff handle