Sceptre Shango Hevioso - Voodoo Vodun - Fon - Benin

Sceptre Shango Hevioso, Fon culture, Benin. Height 44cm

Shango (among the Yoruba) or Hevioso (among the Fon) is the god of war and thunder. He is revered for his strength and feared by all. He is also the one who judges and delivers sentences. He is a powerful deity in the Vodou pantheon.

Beautiful and ancient Shango scepter. It is rare to see it represented in this way. In 90% of cases, it is depicted holding its double-edged axe. It is seldom seen, as here, carrying a throne or a traditional chieftain's seat. It rides a mythical animal that is between a feline and a horse. The whole is perfectly balanced. An experienced sculptor created this work. He put intention into it; it is a living piece. A mysterious and ancient force emanates from it. The pose is dignified. The sculpture is fine. You will notice that pieces of white metal are inlaid throughout the work. Holes indicate where this metal has come loose over time and handling. The wood is old, patinated, and oxidized. Beautiful application of paint and colored pigments. Cracks and damage, see photos. Sold as-is. Photos are part of the description. A beautiful piece of old, authentic collection. Circa 1950.

Provenance
- Ursula Heijs Voorhuis, the Netherlands.
- Jack Nelis, Netherlands.