A very rare old wooden staff from the Yoruba peoples, Nigeria, West Africa. A finely carved wooden staff with male figure and shown holding two ceremonial containers or offerings. The figure has a deep well handled surface patina, the edges all show wear and handling, evidence of ceremonial use. Measures 12.25 inches tall ( 14 inches tall on custom wooden base.) About the culture of the staff: Esu (also called Eshu, Elegba) is believed to be the messenger of Yoruba gods, bearer of sacrifices, guardian of the ritual way of life and often also seen as the ‘trickster god’. If Esu isn’t properly honoured, trouble is expected upon the community or individual. If properly honoured, diviners make use of Esu staffs (ogo elegba) to announce the presence of Esu, remove obstacles, cure illness and to assist individuals in their communication with other gods.Esu\'s power is often visually represented in ogo elegba as male or female, relating to his ability to morph between the two sexes, turn death into life (through child birth) and to overcome the tension between both sexes.

Good/fair, well worn, old stress fracture in wood.