Jean-Jacques Rotthier Collection (1932–2009), Brussels, then by descent

Devotees of Shàngó, the Yoruba deity of thunder and divine justice, carried such wands during ceremonial dances. The object is distinguished by the double-axe motif rising from the figure’s head, symbolizing the “thunderstones” believed to be hurled from the heavens as manifestations of Shàngó’s power and judgment.

The figure represents a priestess. Her posture of devotion serves as a visual counterpoint to Shàngó’s formidable power, acting as an intermediary between the mortal world and the deity’s swift justice.