| Description |
"Fetish tree". Above bird figure, wings and tail placed over figure of a chameleon. In addition, high bent regalia such as spear points, sickle knife, even, etc. Laterally below 2 more approaches, only with chameleon figures in spear- etc. Ring. Laterally each 1 chameleon on the support, 1 broken off. Middle section with 2 rings of clamps bent downward. Below cast yellow overlay with chameleon, snakes and crocodile figures. "Okpa-aru ... ist a bronze staff of unspecified age, though it is one of the few items of regalia thought to have been made by Ayegba. Associated with sacrifices made to the earth by an official called the Enefola, it further illustrates the link between the welfare of the Ata and the control of certain rituals by trusted aides and chiefs. To preserve its sanctity and efficacy, it is stored in the sacred shrine of the Ata's leading masquerade, ekwe ... claimed to have been founded by the Ayegba. Although okpa-aru may be owned by commoners, the Ata's is distinguished by its rich ornamentation. The shaft, decorated at intervals with rings and drooping petallike forms, separated in a trident-like configuration at the top. Each prong ends in a finial, the center finial being the most elaborate. Okpa-aru is particularly important during the festival of egwu Ayegba, which also features repeated performances of the ekwe masquerade. Stuck into the ground, it receives sacrificial food and dring to ensure the revitalization of king and kingdom. Because some of the food falls on the earth, the sourve of life, the peaceful celebration of this festival of hope is assured." (Dike zu moderner Form des Stabes. 76) PUBL Kat. Fetische p. 281, Abb. 101 LIT Ben Amos 1980: 52, und pl. 54 (Chicago, Field Museum) do. 1976: 248-250 Pitt-Rivers Cat. pl. XLIII, 330 Chike Dike: Regalia .. in Igala. African Arts XX, 3; 1987: 75f |
