The flywhisk is one of the penultimate symbols
of royalty in Africa. In most cultures around the
world, the wealth and power of a king or leader
is measured by the sumptuous nature of his
possessions. The king is lofted above the status
of mere mortals into the realm of the divine by
the luxury of his regalia. In many cultures of
Africa, colorful beads intricately woven into
spectacular robes and hats are the costume of
royalty. Both the vibrancy of the colors and the
sophistication of the woven patterns would have
wowed the public and given the king an
appropriate royal aura. Like these royal clothes,
like a crown or a staff, the flywhisk is an
indication of royalty. This flywhisk has been
carved by a master artist working for the royal
court. The impressive carving is further
embellished by a thin layer of gold sheet that has
been pounded onto the wood. This sumptuous
wrapping makes the flywhisk even more
stunning and befitting of a king. A bright red
cloth covers the join of the horsehair whisk and
the wooden handle. The carved motif of the bird
is a symbol of royalty much like a lion or jaguar.
A row of conch shells decorates the neck of the
handle. Seashells, gathered from far away
shores and prized for their beautiful forms and
colours, are a natural treasure that is considered a
symbol of royalty much like beads. One must picture
the king seated high upon his throne, feet
resting on a cushion, wearing beaded robes and
jewelry during a royal ceremony. In the corner
behind the king stands a servant who gently
waves this whisk around the king, shooing away
the pesky flies that attempt to land on his royal
highness. When we imagine this ceremony, the
true luxury of the king that this flywhisk
represents becomes evident.
- (PF.5897)
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