Ashanti Linguist's Staff Depicting Horned Animal with Bird on Head, Based

A court spokesman carried a staff that carried a message of its own. Decoding it was the audience’s business.

This Ashanti staff, carved in Ghana in the 20th century, is topped by a sturdy four-legged animal with horns, a broad muzzle and a red-painted mouth. A small bird perches between the horns. Glossy chestnut paint covers the body, with black on the horns and hooves. The surface shows gentle wear and some chipping.

Over five and a half feet tall. Whatever the proverb was, the bird is clearly in on it.