Traditional healers and diviners - called Níangas, use wooden
staffs, especially during spirit possession. It was said that a
Mhondoro (a powerful spirit) once pointed a wooden rod at
the Zambezi river, parting the waters, thus allowing people to
cross. An unmistakable similarity to Moses and the Israelites,
suggesting a Christian missionary influence. The monkey
represents one of the many totemic animals among the Shona
people. A totem originates from one individual (the ancestor)
& is passed on to the descendants of that individual. Totems
are often used to praise a person for their good deeds, or to
seek the favor from someone who is of a higher position. An
animal is chosen because of certain admirable characteristics.
Purchased directly from a Shona diviner, or n'anga.
Comes with custom stand.
Dimensions: 31"H x 1.5"W x 2"D
