Staff of "orisa oko" in beaded sheath "ewu ileke"
Description
forged iron staff (molded from farming hoes), mounted on a wooden hilt, wrapped with iron bands and set with iron burls, sheath of several layers of raffia bast and fabric, sewn with colourful miniature glass beads, three birds attached, four triangular flaps at the sides, min. dam., metal socle;
“orisa oko” is a deity that presides over many matters including judgements in cases of anti-social behaviour, infertility, disease and poverty. Proclaiming “orisa oko’s” royalty and prowess in bringing wealth, many devotees embellish their staffs with elaborately beaded garments including a crown (missing in present case) and heavy bundles of cowries. Like ruler’s feet, the foot of the staffs must never touch the ground directly, which is why they are placed in brass basins.