staff with bird finial; iron

Diviner's Staff, 20th century

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Ironexpand_more

Gift of Bruce B. Daytonexpand_more  80.54.6

Not on Viewexpand_more

Among Yoruba people an iron staff topped by birds signals the presence of an herbalist or diviner. Such staffs might be placed outside the diviner's home, or activated for use in ceremonies. The birds connect the staff to Osanyin, the god of herbalism, and also to dangerous spirits whose power the diviner must control and direct on behalf of his clients.

Details
Title
Diviner's Staff
Role
Artist
Accession Number
80.54.6
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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staff with bird finial; iron