Staff c. 20th century

This wooden staff was created by an artist of the Kongo people, it's hard to know the exact date. It's so interesting to see how the carver has approached this piece. There's a sense of precision, but also a freedom in the way the forms have been shaped. The texture is fascinating, isn't it? The smooth polish of the wood in contrast to the rough, organic feel of the hair is incredible. Look at the way the two faces emerge from the staff, almost like they're whispering secrets. The way the features are carved; the curve of the brow, the set of the lips, give each face a distinct character. I think what I love about this staff is the sense of balance between the physical and the spiritual. It reminds me of the work of Martin Puryear, particularly the way he uses wood to create these enigmatic, powerful forms. It feels like a conversation between cultures, between materials, between the seen and unseen.