Bidspirit auction | Yoruba Brass Mace or Scepter,

Yoruba Brass Mace or Scepter, Ogboni Society - Decorated and ornate brass mace or scepter of the 19th century or earlier used by the Ogboni society and Yoruba peoples of Nigeria, West Africa. The head with a pattern of four circular spun brass leaves with two in brass and two in iron, to the center a turned iron screw probably for ceremonial attachments. Iron shaft with a brass disc design to the center and another brass decoration to the base decorated in ribbed design and loop to the base. The Ogboni society was a secret society in the Yoruba kingdoms of West Africa. The society was part of the checks and balances system of the kingdoms. They performed a range of political and religious functions, including kingmaking, influencing and advising monarchs, high court officials, dethroning Oba / Kings, and ordering Oba to commit self sacrifice or punishment. Size overall 16” L, 1lb 1 ounce Published Author of African Iron Age art and Antiques