Oromo Copper Pilgrimage Staff

A fine branching rod with two upswept arms, like a tiny sapling in a hurry.

This oromo pilgrimage staff is Oromo, from Ethiopia, East Africa, and dates to the mid 19th century. It is wood & copper. The Oromo are one of the largest peoples of Ethiopia and neighboring regions, with a long tradition of staffs that mark age, status and ceremonial roles. A thin, reddish stem rises straight and splits into a wide fork with slender arms. Small bumps and joints show along the stem, and the tips are tiny and slightly thickened. It is light, delicate and perfectly upright. It is 16 inches wide, 5 deep and 49 high.

Leaves are optional, apparently, and so is any fuss.