Arms, Armour, Asian and Ethnographic Antiques

Yoruba Brass Mace or Scepter, Ogboni Society

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Start price: $150

Estimated price: $300 - $500

Buyer's premium: 25%

Sales Tax: On the lot's price and buyer's premium

Large brass mace or scepter of the 19th century or earlier used by the Ogboni society and Yoruba peoples of Nigeria, West Africa. The mace head of a square form in brass with a series of ribbed designs to base that transition to a multifaceted iron shaft. The center with a brass decoration in disc form that continues to the base in brass as well with more varied disc designs before a small cone pommel.

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 18 3/4" L, 2lbs 11 ounces

Published Author of African Iron Age art and Antiques