Diviner's Staff c. 20th century

sculpture

clear graphic shape

3d printed part

rounded shape

silhouette design

sculpture

sculptural image

unrealistic statue

3d shape

building art

sculpture

bubble style

This "Diviner's Staff" is a striking example of Yoruba metalwork, crafted sometime in the 20th century. The staff, now housed in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, is made of iron and stands at 28 1/2 inches tall. Its design features a central rod topped with a circular cage, adorned with stylized bird figures. This elaborate structure is believed to have been used by Yoruba diviners for rituals and divination practices, signifying their connection to the spiritual realm. The staff's intricate details and symbolic elements provide insight into Yoruba beliefs and artistic traditions.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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Among Yoruba people an iron staff topped by birds signals the presence of an herbalist or diviner. Such staffs might be placed outside the diviner's home, or activated for use in ceremonies. The birds connect the staff to Osanyin, the god of herbalism, and also to dangerous spirits whose power the diviner must control and direct on behalf of his clients.