Upper part of a dignitary staff · Sierra Leone, Mende · ID: 3041957
not available anymore
Provenance
French Private CollectionSize
H: 39 cm
H: 15.4 inch
Description
wood, dark brown patina, surmounted by a seated female figure, striking long neck carved with rings, eyes inset with metal tags, drilled ears, back scarifications, min. dam., slight traces of abrasion, base;
these staffs are associated with the chief’s prestige and were carried on certain occasions to show his position in the community.
Comparing literature
Hommel, William, Art of the Mende, University of Maryland 1974, ill. 79
Publications
AHDRC: 0139706