This charming staff, usually carried at ceremonies, serves as an insignia of office. Figured staffs are prestige objects in all African societies, yet they vary from one ethnic group to...
This charming staff, usually carried at ceremonies, serves as an insignia of office. Figured staffs are prestige objects in all African societies, yet they vary from one ethnic group to another. Serving to extend the body of the holder, the staff renders him or her larger and more powerful, and therefore needs to be a genuine reflection of the character of the person. The figure of the character is placed prominently on top of the staff. The woman is in a kneeling position while her elongated arms help to support her position. Her pendulous breasts accentuate her femininity, while her face demonstrates tremendous sense of character, strength and determination. Her facial features are enlarged to help promote a view from all angles while at the same time not losing any of the mystic involved. Aside from the beautiful sculpture on top, the decoration remains subtle and simple, not detracting in any way from the beauty that the artist created. To many, a staff symbolizes power and authority. However, with such beauty connected to it, a different symbolism emerges, rendering it a beautiful work of art.