Makonde Wood Staff, Tanzania, Based

The Makonde of Tanzania are known across East Africa as master carvers. A staff from their hands was carried as a sign of standing and authority.

This one, 20th century, rises forty-two and a half inches to a smooth ball finial, above a section carved with fine spiral fluting. Below, two small figures are stacked, the upper seated on the shoulders of the lower, who stands with legs braced on a ring. The shaft tapers to a point bound with fibre.

A deep reddish-brown polish catches the light along every curve.

Carry it, or stand it by the door. Either way, someone is in charge.