Most curious knobkerrie/stick?

[Tim Simmons]

I like sticks, not walking sticks. The pure simple stick as a weapon inoffensive looking, a wolf in sheep's clothing. Also the stick as the ultimate weapon symbol exuding authority, a small baton. A magical staff to denote a believed ability to commune with the occult world. All fascinate me.

I still think this is Kenyan and a staff of some sort. I do not see a stylised animal face especially one with the most common form of baldness. Look at the hair rounding the ear. The Mau Mau fighters taken prisoner had thier oath to the "witch doctor" neutralised by a government sanctioned "witch doctor" in the battle for hearts and minds.

[Emanuel]

Originally Posted by Tim Simmons

...Also the stick as the ultimate weapon symbol exuding authority, a small baton.

I fully agree Tim, as a weapon the stick is the simplest and most efficient. And there is great beauty about it, especially when carved out of fine wood. A scepter is, after all, just a luxurious mace, which is a re-inforced club. I will definitely start collecting them. As for this particular specimen, wouldn't the carving get too damaged if it were used as a club? It may indeed be more appropriate as a talisman/ceremonial staff.