The ipawo ase literally means "hand-held staff of authority/life force". All alaase, those who possess and utilize ase (life force) on behalf of their people, are entitled to carry the ipawo ase. These include chiefs, priests, Osugbo elders, and kings. This powerful staff is comprised of a cylindrical extension which may have been inserted into a longer staff. The head on top is representational of either an ancestral figure or deity similar in appearance to the edan figures. The ring on the top was meant to hold a chain so the staff could be worn by the individual during rituals. The alaase is a person who through training, experience and initiation has learned how to use the essential life force of living things. Yet, the Yoruba believe all people possess ase and the potential for certain achievements, and therefore should be given respect and treated with patience. In this finely carved staff we see the very embodiment of these lovely virtues.
- (PF.4761)
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