Yoruba Edan Ogboni Staff, Based

A pair of slender bronze figures, ringed with snakes.

Yoruba artisans of Nigeria, West Africa, made this edan Ogboni staff in bronze and wood in the 20th century. Edan are paired cast figures linked by a chain and are commonly associated with the Ogboni society, a council of elders. Two tall staffs, each topped with a bearded head under a pointed cap, stand side by side. The figures are wrapped in bands and looped forms, with long iron spikes below them. They are set into a stepped wood base. The metal is a pale greenish gold.

About 9.8 inches tall. Dignified twins with long spines.