Fishtail Axe Scepter with Head
Bobo, Western Burkina Faso
Iron, wood
Early 20th century

Wheelock writes that scepters of this type probably functioned in ceremonial contexts and were fearsome weapons against unseen malevolent forces (Land of the Flying Masks, 2006).

The 100,000 Bobo are primarily farmers whose lives are regulated by a council of elders. They cast bronze pendants and carve large masks. The masks symbolize animals or spirits and are worn during ceremonies associated with new crops, initiations, and funerals (Bacquart, The Tribal Arts of Africa, 1998). 

Published: Roy, Land of the Flying Masks, 2006, plate 273. 

26.75 in :: 68 cm

InventoryID #13-2359

Price on Request