Staff 19th-20th century

This staff was carved from wood by a Rungu artist. Look closely, and you'll see that the wood has been shaped with great care. The staff isn't just a straight stick; there's a gentle curve, with subtle swelling along its length. The carver has taken time to consider how it feels in the hand. But it's the details that really catch the eye. The spherical knob at the top, and the two carved sections, add visual interest. These areas likely took great precision to realize. We can imagine the artist using hand tools – perhaps a small knife or chisel – to slowly reveal the desired form. The amount of labor involved speaks to the object’s value. It's important to remember that this staff isn't just decorative. It's a functional object, perhaps used for support while walking. This points to a broader truth: that craft and art are often intertwined, and that everyday objects can be imbued with great skill and meaning.