long pointed handle attached to 17 wriggley-shaped snake-like figures; snake heads are very pointed and sharp

Ritual Iron, 1900-1950

Unknown artist, expand_more

Ironexpand_more

Gift of funds from Beverly Grossmanexpand_more  2019.44.13

This ritual wand was used by a rainmaker, who either planted it in the ground or placed it in a clay vessel to influence the weather. The zigzag-shaped elements represent the flash of lightning and also refer to the sudden movements of slithering snakes, thought to forecast the coming of rain. In the past, the Mumuye peoples of Nigeria used sinuous rods of forged iron as currency. A dozen such irons were bundled together to create this wand.

Details
Title
Ritual Iron
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2019.44.13
Curator Approved

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long pointed handle attached to 17 wriggley-shaped snake-like figures; snake heads are very pointed and sharp