Rattle staff "ukhurhe"

wood, brown patina, crowned by a human head, min. dam., insect caused missing parts, traces of abrasion, base;
rattle staffs "ukhurhe" are part of the basic equipment of Benin ancestor altars. They are used to get into contact with the spiritual sphere. After the fathers decease it is the task of the eldest son to order such a staff to be carved and to deposit it among the others on the ancestors shrine. In this way the deceased joins the community of the ancestors.