Shango's Baton - Yoruba - Nigeria

A fine sculpted specimen of a kneeling man, in a respectful pose, displaying the features and characteristics classic to Yoruba statuary. Above a finely braided hairstyle, the stylized axe of Shango dominates the composition.
It was carved in the 1950s for my father-in-law (a practicing Yoruba) and he bequeathed it to me when he passed away. I kept it for nearly 30 years and it is time for it to go to someone else.
Beauty and harmony of this sculpture carry a deep spiritual meaning, far beyond mere craftsmanship.
At the crossroads of art and the sacred, this Oshe Shango staff wonderfully illustrates the richness of Yoruba aesthetics.
This dance staff "Oshe Shango" or "Ose Sango", a ceremonial ritual staff carved, is used by the followers of Shango, god of lightning, thunder, and justice in Yoruba mythology. Like all Yoruba gods, also called Orishas, Shango is a divinized ancestor.
Among the most revered Yoruba deities, Shango is the subject of particular ceremonies in which the initiate brandishes the dance staff to the sound of percussion. The staff is held in the left hand.
The dance movements and the sounds produced by the percussionists reproduce swirling winds and the rumbles of thunder, thus echoing the deity.
This staff also serves as a staff of command.
Patina brown, almost black. This dance staff is mounted on a wooden pedestal (total height with the pedestal 39 cm).