Work of Art

Beaded Sheath for an Orisa Oko Staff

Created

Early 20th century

Artist

Nationality

Nigerian (Yoruba)

Birth/Death

20th century-

Dimensions

68 × 10 1/2 × 2 inches (172.7 × 26.7 × 5.1 centimeters)

Medium

Cloth and glass beads, Mixed Media

Credit

Purchased with funds from the State of North Carolina, by exchange

Object Number

2000.5.2

Culture

Classification

Textiles

Department

African

Key Ideas

This object was made by a Yorùbá artist in Nigeria. It is a decorative cover for a staff that honors Okó, the deity, or god, of farming and fertility.
The colorful glass beads and cloth used on this cover show that the staff was considered sacred and important.
The swordlike staff was not used as a weapon. It is a special object that represents status and authority.

Learn More

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Yorùbá rulers (called obas), and other leaders used beaded objects to show power and honor the gods. Glass beads and colorful patterned fabrics were added to this sheath, as decoration and to highlight its importance.

This beaded sheath protected an Òrìsà Okó staff when it was not being used in ceremonies. Blacksmiths made these staffs from old farming tools, reshaping and strengthening the metal. Òrìsà Okó staffs were not meant for fighting but for ceremonial use, to honor the farming god Okó.

The Yorùbá people are one of the three largest ethnic groups of Nigeria. Yorùbá artists are known for creating works that combine cultural traditions with personal style. Their art often expresses religious beliefs, leadership, and community values.

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