Togolese Iron Fertility Fetish, Based

Rusty T-shaped stake topped with a small cone, like a very serious thumbtack.

This fertility fetish on a base in iron and wood is from Togo, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. Iron holds a special place in West African tradition, where blacksmiths are often thought to have special skills and knowledge. Slim vertical shaft with a pitted, orange-brown, flaking surface, capped by a conical point. A short crosspiece at the foot gives it a T-shaped profile. It stands on a flat black base. It is 3 inches wide, 1 deep and 8 high.

Rust has done most of the decorating.