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In the Galleries  Dance Staff for ShangoYoruba peoples, Nigeria, 19th-20th century, Dance staff for Shango Shango is the Yoruba god of thunder and lightening. The priests and priestesses of Shango carry staffs such as this during celebrations honoring the deity. During the performance, the devotee may become possessed by the spirit of Shango and wield the staff as a weapon. Other times, the staff serves as an emblem of one’s identity as a devotee of Shango. Because of their protective associations, Shango staffs may be displayed over doorways to ward off theft and misfortune. |