Opa Osanyin staff. Yoruba, Nigeria, late 19th-early 20th century.

Opa Osanyin staff. Yoruba, Nigeria, late 19th-early 20th century.
Wrought iron.
Measurements: 190 cm (height).

The bidding staff continues the typology of the Opa Osanyin: a circle of small birds and a shaft in the middle that raises a large bird above the smaller ones. Babatunde Lawal suggests that the reason for this division may be to suggest the transmission of metaphysical powers from the celestial to the terrestrial realm. The birds, emissaries of Ogun , refer to the herbalist's understanding and power over these malevolent people. There are usually sixteen birds, invoking the most sacred number of divination, surrounding and facing the central bird, which represents the god of smallpox.

Yoruba herbalists and priests call upon the help of Osanyin, the spirit of herbal medicines, or Opa Erinle, in their work against mental and physical illnesses caused by malevolent forces and individuals. The Yoruba believe that Osanyin's power resides in a wrought iron staff that is placed on the altars.