West African Fon Ceremonial Axe

Hand carved wooden shaft terminating in a stylised animal head, a hand forged iron axe head protruding from the mouth, the wooden shaft terminating in a metal sleeve.  This ceremonial axe  would have been carried by the king's messenger and was used to represent the king.  Thus the messenger was accepted with respect and obedience.  Fon people (Benin), West Africa, used ceremonially.  For a similar example see the William Jamieson Collection sold by Waddington's, Canada , May 2014 Lot# 379 
Length 49cm
Width 25cm