Scepter, late 1800s-early 1900s. Used by male chiefs, ivory scepters were both symbols of status that indicated worldly authority and religious emblems that suggested supernatural influence. In Yombe society until the early 1900s, the aggressive side of a chief’s authority was dramatized in spectacular public executions. These scepters depict a chief enthroned on the bound body of a criminal destined for such a death. The use of ivory implies that the chief has the fatal power of an elephant. His hairstyle most likely derives from that worn by Portuguese sailors, and he chews a bitter r
Scepter, late 1800s-early 1900s. Used by male chiefs, ivory scepters were both symbols of status that indicated worldly authority and religious emblems that suggested supernatural influence. In Yombe society until the early 1900s, the aggressive side of a chief’s authority was dramatized in spectacular public executions. These scepters depict a chief enthroned on the bound body of a criminal destined for such a death. The use of ivory implies that the chief has the fatal power of an elephant. His hairstyle most likely derives from that worn by Portuguese sailors, and he chews a bitter root locally known as munkwisa, administered to persons suspected of witchcraft. A package of various medicines mixed with a resinous material would have been enclosed within the container extending from the figure’s head. Thus charged with potent ingredients, the scepters endowed their owners with specific supernatural powers.
Size: 3252px × 5161px
Photo credit: © Heritage Images / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
Keywords: africa, art, bone, cabinda, central, cleveland, congo, democratic, heritage, ivory, museum, people, republic, unknown, yombe
