Staffs are a symbol of kingly authority,
associated with rulers for centuries in cultures all
over the world. This regal staff shows an
elongated figure seated upon a stool, the
penultimate sign of authority in Africa. He is
elegantly sculpted, showing signs of ritual usage
suggesting that this staff was a treasured item
used during ceremonial events. The long handle
of the staff is formed by a series of inverted
conical objects stacked upon each other.
Decorated with abstract linear patterns, these
objects appear to be drums. One can see the
wooden pegs and woven fabric that would have
secured the stretched hides into place. If these
objects are indeed drums, their presence
certainly reinforces the ceremonial aspect of this
staff, hinting of the pounding rhythms and
graceful dancers that would have marked such a
special occasion. Perhaps this figure represents
someone of revered status, perhaps an idealized
ancestor or idolized deity. He wears a beaded
belt, a symbol of both wealth and rank. His
expression is quite pensive and meditative, as he
strokes his long, matted beard. This type of
beard is characteristic of chiefs, insinuating that
this figure is in fact a proud chief, sitting in
counsel, dispensing wisdom with authority and
compassion. The entire object exudes a sense of
power and grandeur in its elegant form, crowned
by a figure of great dignity, power, and beauty.
- (PF.6161)
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