For your consideration is this African Tribal Shaman Ceremonial Axe, circa 1900. Possibly from the Yoruba people of West Africa or the Lega people of Central Africa. The Yoruba are historically famous for their artistic skills in producing stylized African artifacts objects. Wood carving in Yorubaland was primarily meant for religious purposes. Yoruba people have a strong belief in the spiritual world and carve wooden figures as a means of connecting with their gods and ancestors. Much Yoruba sculpture was associated with deities controlling natural forces; other statuary represented ancestral figures. This example displays a fine carved figural bone shaft with 3 carved intricate tribal figures. The lower figure is shown with an erect "phallus" formed by the rear spike of the iron axe blade. The shaft is bound in three positions with twisted copper wire (telegraph signal wire), axe head and rear spike are also wrapped in copper wire. The upper wrap forms a "hat" for the figure. The whole shaft has aged and darkened, acquiring a marvelous oxblood (possibly stained) patina. This is a beautiful African Tribal Ceremonial axe/hatchet, amazingly intricate hardcarved artistry. Upper third section is loose. Sisal cord loop affixed at the top. Measures 5"W at axe head, x 16.5"L, weight 1lb, 2oz.