Command stick, Igbo , Nigeria - Lot 59

Command stick, Igbo , Nigeria Metal Early 20th century Height: 136 cm This wrought-iron cane belongs to the category of title sticks traditionally associated with men of high status - chiefs, clan heads, priests or invested notables. Spiritually charged, it embodies the power, prestige and achievements of its holder, whether living or deceased. Considered a sacred object, it served as a mark of authority and testified to its owner's social and ritual importance within the community. This baton of command features a long, straight, cylindrical handle, whose rigor is subtly broken by an openwork section made up of several twisted, curved rods. This elaborate motif announces the cane's tip, which ends in a slender arrowhead. ---- This finely wrought iron staff belongs to the category of title staffs traditionally reserved for men of high rank - chiefs, clan leaders, priests, or invested notables. Spiritually charged, it embodies the power, prestige, and accomplishments of its bearer, whether living or deceased. Considered a sacred object, it served as a symbol of authority and reflected the social and ritual importance of its owner within the community. This staff of command consists of a long, straight, cylindrical shaft, whose formal austerity is subtly interrupted by an openwork section composed of twisted and curved iron rods. This intricate motif leads to the staff's tip, which ends in an elegant arrowhead point.