Congolese Shaman's Fetish

8 1/2" overall comprising an iron bar with scrolled terminals. The center with attached fetish bundle contained in carefully cord wrap stabilized at intervals with knots forming longitudinal spines. Fine early example, late 19th century to 1900. The wrap frayed in two small places revealing internal plant fiber securing the fetish material. The iron rusted from use. Iron and the forging process were considered to have supernatural aspects and in some cultures, blacksmiths were outcasts, because of the fear they generated. The scroll terminals are intended to contain the power of the metal by turning it back into itself.