Staff / Part of a larger object

(UEM44011) Staff with delicate engravings of human- and animal-like figures. The staff, which is most likely only a part of a larger ceremonial staff or artefact, is made with all seven image slots. The intricate engravings show scenes from village life. The decorative engravings on the staff were probably designed to represent the breadth of a leader’s responsibility and concern. The engravings are representations of life itself.

Material: Bone, wood, and bamboo
Region: Bas-Congo, Bakongo
Length: 94,5 cm, diameter: 4 cm.
Arrival: Donated to the Museum by Randi Schrader Nielsen, 1969. Initially in the possession of Fredrik August Michelet (1856-1916).