In addition to being functional, such everyday items as stools, headrest, and staffs may also indicate someone's rank, status, and wealth. Prestige staffs or walking sticks cailled udlwedlwe were used by Zulu elders of both sexes. This staff is decorated with a female figure wearing a traditional Zulu woman's beaded necklace and leather apron.
Catalogue Description:
Ceremonial staff of polished wood surmounted by a representation of a woman with arms outstretched. Circular incisions around wrists, upper arms, knees, ankles and waist indicating bracelets and belts. Multi-strand necklace of colored glass beads surrounds neck, around hips and hinde, loincloth. Additional beadwork beneath figures feet.
