Fon Asen memorial staff
This African memorial stick, called Asen, is linked to the cult of the ancestors of the Fon of Benin. At the top of a stem, we systematically observe a structure in the shape of an inverted cone topped by a tray where different characters and animals are represented.
This particular piece features a chief seated on his throne surrounded by his court. Then a hunter and a bovine respectively symbolizing the two main sources of food: hunting and the agricultural world.
Finally, a dog and a chameleon are shown face to face. It should be noted that chameleons are totemic animals in African cosmogonies.
02432
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Metal
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Switzerland
- Condition
- Excellent
This African memorial stick, called Asen, is linked to the cult of the ancestors of the Fon of Benin. At the top of a stem, we systematically observe a structure in the shape of an inverted cone topped by a tray where different characters and animals are represented.
This particular piece features a chief seated on his throne surrounded by his court. Then a hunter and a bovine respectively symbolizing the two main sources of food: hunting and the agricultural world.
Finally, a dog and a chameleon are shown face to face. It should be noted that chameleons are totemic animals in African cosmogonies.