Staff with five heads
Description
wood, strongly encrusted blackish-brown patina, traces of soot, faces with expressive features of skull-like structure, bare teeth from inserted wooden splinters, slightly dam., cracks, metal plate.
These staffs are used to define the restricted area where the ceremonies of the night-watch society “troh” are held.
Among the Bangwa kingdoms of the Cameroon Grassfields, the central “fwa” (chief) and a number of secret societies are responsible for the social rule of each kingdom. One such society is the night Society “troh” of nine council members, believed to be the descendants of the original nine companions of the founding Bangwa “fwa”. The “troh” society is responsible for the selection and enthronement of the next chief and must pass on secret knowledge to him. Beyond royal duties, “troh” members must maintain the social and religious well being of the people by dispensing arresting, prosecuting and executing criminals and witches.
Comparing literature
Fagg, William, African Majesty from Grassland and Forest, Ontario 1981, p. 69, ill. 24Publications
AHDRC: 0150578