Title staff "iwana ogun" ·  Nigeria, Yoruba · ID: 3037197

Description

iron, brass, iron hook, surmounted by an equestrian figure with spear, min. dam., slight traces of corrosion;
such staffs are made in the name of “ogun”, the god of blacksmiths and warriors, who is in charge of all products made by them - including artist tools and weapons. They are prerogatives of the head of blacksmiths and also emblems of the war chiefs. “Ogun’s” nature is often characterized by singing and devotees of the iron god may sacrifice dogs to their deity.

Comparing literature

Thompson, Robert Farris, Black Gods and Kings, Los Angeles 1971, ill. 5