Diviner's Staff, 20th century
Yorubaexpand_more
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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