The Yoruba universe is governed by over 400 orishas, divine beings that inhabit the oceans, plants, earth, iron, and other elements. Some orishas were once living people. This wand would have been used by a priest or priestess of Shango, an orisha who was an historic Yoruba king. Obsessed with harnessing the energy of lightning, the king attracted it to his home, and an ensuing fire killed his family. In his grief, he transformed and was made one with lightning. This wand represents a female devotee of Shango. Her hair is colored with indigo, as Shango is considered a hot deity, and his followers must offer gestures of coolness.
Oshe Shango (Dance Wand for Shango)
| Artist | Unidentified Maker, Yoruba culture |
| Year | Unknown date |
| Creation Place | Nigeria |
| Medium | Wood, indigo |
| Dimensions | 22 3/4 x 4 in. (57.78 x 10.16 cm) |
| Collection | Collection of Susan and Richard Ulevitch |
| Credit Line | Courtesy of Susan and Richard Ulevitch |