Staff

Item number Ac243 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

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Data
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This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

Staff made from a slightly crooked length of dark brown coloured wood topped by a long-haired female head. Large loop of hair down back is covered with areas of parallel incised lines and begins from far back on the wrinkled forehead, looping around the recessed back of the head. Nose formed by three angular facial planes. Incised almond-shaped eyes, small mouth, and '+' on cheek on left.

History Of Use

Staffs are used to help carry objects, walking, decoration, as a weapon, and to show prestige. Based on the height of this staff, it was unlikely to have been used for walking but could still have been used for stability.

Cultural Context

carrying

Narrative

The collector, Nellie Taylor, served as a nursing missionary (1900-1920), first with the Ovimbundu at Bihe, then with the Chokwe at luma Kasai. She belonged to a group who sponsored several missions across Central Africa from 1881-1931.

Iconographic Meaning

The stylized hair, large eyes and cross on forehead are very typical of Chokwe masks. The pattern on the hair is possibly maswi a yisakala ("net of cages"), one of the most widespread Chokwe decorative motifs.