Ritual object "anok"

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Description

wood, brown patina, a columnar neck supporting a narrow anthropomorphic head with a long beak and elaborate headcrest in openwork design, min. dam., cracks, traces of abrasion;
important requisite of the “simo” secret society. In front of the “anok” and through him, the young initiate is prepared for his rights and duties as adequate member of the social community. During the closing ceremonies antelope horns, filled with magical substances, were stuck into the openings of the anok. After the circumcision the young man takes the horns and keeps them. The “anok” plays an important role at harvest rites and at funeral ceremonies for important clan members as well.

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Comparing literature

Bamert, Arnold, Afrika, Olten 1980, p. 4

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