Sceptre in wood Fon Benin circa 1800
Sticks and scepters command has always been the insignia of kings
In some cases, they may also have acted as phallic symbols evoking notions of power and fertility, in association with royalty.
The functions of these royal scepters are multiple planting ceremony to make the land fertile, or at weddings to promote fertility of the newlyweds and of course the transition to adulthood.
This rare piece is dedicated to sex and circumcision ceremonies.
Decorated with a phallus, complete in return for a stylized hornbill, the handle carved in high relief shows three characters erect.
The bird and in particular the hornbill is associated with the sex of man and is very present in the rituals associated with circumcision.

Africa. Benin (formerly Dahomey), Fon, early 19th century.
Beautiful patina, good condition
Wear of age
49 cm x 28 cm
Base. 66 cm

Regional & Ethnic Antiques