Power Stick / Scepter – Wood – Djimini – Ivory Coast

Beautiful power stick stick from the Djimini people of Ivory Coast. The scepteris made out of wood and is in good condition with traces of wear and tear. The scepter is finely carved with an ancestor figure on top and a mask in the middle and a snake around it.

Certain objects (power sticks, scepters, fly swatters, etc.) are exclusive attributes of the function of chief or king, a set of objects that we call re galia . These are the material symbols of the chief’s power.

Command staffs or scepters have always been the insignia of African kings. In some cases, they may also have played the role of phallic symbols evoking notions of power and fertility, in association with royalty.

The scepter was so important in symbolizing royal power that even when it was not in the hands of the sovereign, it was shown the respect due to the leader.

Provenance: Manfred Schäfer collection, ex- gallery owner from Ulm, Germany.