Comprising of multiple strands of fine iron each individually twisted, coiled and flattened at their ends into snake-like formations. Secured into the ground to marshal the earths life force. These 'rain wands' were forged by blacksmiths specifically to empower the Mumuye rainmaker.
'Their ritual supplications require iron rods forged in the form of zigzag-shaped staffs to represent the flash of lightening in the sky and the sudden movement of slithering snakes, thought to presage rain'.
Reference: Striking Iron, The Art of the African Blacksmith, p92. Tom Joyce and Allen Roberts.
Estimated Period: 1st half 20th Century
Ex Private Collection, UK
Height: 64 cm
Custom mounted as shown
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