ID Number

Title

Item Name

Culture

Material

Date Made

Place Made

Date Collected

Date Owned

Owner

Acquisition Date

Source

Measurements

Condition

Accession Number

Narrative

The donor acquired this stick while filming a wildlife documentary on Olive Baboons troops in the area in 2000. The stick was acquired from a Maasai family compound located close to Chololo Ranch, northwest of Nanyuki. The family are from the Maasai of Mukogodo, living in the Laikipia Platea area.

Description

Dark brown carrying stick with a tapered cylindrical shaft and rounded ends; top is larger than base.

History Of Use

In the Maasai language (Maa) this stick is called an “orinka”. Orinkas are finely carved ‘black sticks’ and those men entitled to carry one are distinguished as a leader amongst their age group -- both warriors and elders. Carrying the orinka indicates they have the authority to deal with daily issues, disputes, and to conduct meetings. The orinka is usually carved from the heartwood of the acacia tree. The material, carving and the unique shape of the orinka distinguish them from regular cattle sticks carried by Maasai men and women. The orinka is also distinguishable from the shorter-length “rungu” sticks used by warriors as throwing clubs or batons. Maasai men entitled to carry an orinka will also use this stick while competing in traditional jumping dances called “adumu”.