This figure of a socially privileged person is probably reminiscent of a public Amufi festival. It was considered special to appear with a live animal tied to a stick by its wing. In literature, this bird is repeatedly referred to in connection with divination abilities. In fact, it can be assumed that it was considered sacred or particularly worthy of worship, as in ancient Egypt. It was depicted on idiophones, and a large bronze ibis figure was mounted on the roof of the palace entrance in Benin.

See texts related to the bird on our pages.

Staff with Ibis divination bird
Staff with Ibis divination bird
Plate depicting bird hunting
Plate depicting bird hunting

The braided headdress depicts a high-ranking figure wearing a necklace, presumably made from panther teeth, as well as red coral neck jewellery typical of Benin. Felix von Luschan discusses headdresses in great detail from page 136 onwards.

The condition is perfect and the patina indicates that it has been well cared for.