Oromo Walaja or Writing Board

A curving plank, written over and over until the lines became texture.

Oromo people of Ethiopia, East Africa, used this walaja, or writing board, in wood in the 20th century. Such boards are commonly associated with religious schooling, where students copy verses in ink. The board bows gently along its length, with a small rounded head and a forked foot. Rows of script cover the face, some faded, some crisp. The wood is warm brown and slightly rough.

About fifty-one inches long. Lean it in a corner and let it read to you.