Ritual Iron, 1900-1950
Unknown artist, Nigeriaexpand_more
Ironexpand_more
Gift of funds from Beverly Grossmanexpand_more 2019.44.13
On View in Gallery 236expand_more
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
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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