Congolese Wood Textile Hanger

Over three feet of one length of wood, and a loop for a head.

This Republic of Congo textile hanger, 20th century, was made to suspend lengths of cloth, and the finial often got special attention. Here an openwork loop pierced through its center forms the head, with fine incised rings just below. The shaft is smooth and slightly swelling, shading from deep reddish-brown near the finial to a lighter, honeyed tone toward the long sharpened tip. Light scratches and a soft polish speak of use.

Thirty-nine and a half inches, unbroken. It makes its point quietly, from a wall.