Iron currency, 1900-1950
Ga'andaexpand_more
Ironexpand_more
Gift of funds from Beverly Grossmanexpand_more 2019.44.7
On View in Gallery 236expand_more
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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