An unusual and very aesthetic Nyamwezi tribal staff.
The name Nyamwezi apparently means "men of the moon" though some say it means "men of the west". They are the second largest ethnic group in Tanzania. The Nyamwezi are famous for their staffs such as this one, carved out of heavy wood. They are thought to have been used in water ceremonies and are sought after by interior designers and collectors alike due to their unique beauty.
It is said that that the Swiss artist, Alberto Giacometti must have been inspired by these carvings.
This staff came from a private collection in the UK and was likely brought back to the UK sometime around the middle of the last century but may be significantly older.