Diviner's Staff c. 20th century

This is a Diviner's Staff made by a Yoruba artist. The Yoruba are one of the largest ethnic groups in West Africa, and their cultural traditions have deeply influenced art and spirituality across the African diaspora. This iron staff served as a focal point for Yoruba diviners, individuals who mediate between the human and spiritual realms. The figures of birds represent the powers of divination, with the largest bird at the top symbolizing the all-seeing nature of spiritual insight. The grouping of birds below could represent the collective wisdom and guidance available through divination practices. The wrought iron material also has significance. Iron is associated with the deity Ogun, who symbolizes power, protection, and justice. Diviner's staffs like this weren't just objects, they were active participants in the process of seeking knowledge and understanding, connecting the individual to broader spiritual and communal identities.