Oromo Copper Pilgrimage Staff

Ethiopia, mid 19th century, and a long walk ahead.

Staffs have long accompanied travelers, herders and pilgrims in Ethiopia. Among the Oromo they also carried social and ceremonial meaning, marking a person’s role and standing. This one, copper and wood, rises just over five feet and follows the natural line of the branch to a narrow forked top.

Fine copper wire wraps the shaft at intervals. The wood is a warm reddish-brown, with knots and small irregularities along its length. It is light in the hand and plain in the best way.

Lean it by the door. Somebody will want to go somewhere.