Objects used by and designed for the king (Oba) often reflect the exalted status of the ruler. This charming holder is fashioned so the king can comfortably hold the center tubular portion while a cup is placed inside the "pouch." It is designed to be inverted, with the same structure and iconographic image top and bottom. The Yoruba not only believe the Oba's gaze is powerful, but also his touch; necessitating that his people not touch his person. Hence the need for a "device" to separate royalty from subject, and also a metaphor for divine rule of kings. Blue and white beads are associated with Orisha Oshun, deity of medicinal waters. The face on both ends may refer to a particular deity, or an ancestral image. Tassels of blue and red beads, similar to an Oba's veil, hang from the rim of one end. The clever use of white as a border extenuates the deep blue eyes of both faces, while the red and blue-white beads give the stem a feeling of lightness. In fact, the entire object gives off a sense of good cheer and well-being, mixed with a certain mystery; just the effect an Oba would wish to present.