This tall wooden post with its circular head has been decorated with red ocre pigments. House posts like these had both a functional and decorative purpose. They were used in a traditional Gurage dwelling as a welcoming and protective symbol. The circular head on top of the post was a common symbol of protection throughout this region. The practical function of these posts was to act as markers to separate areas inside the traditional dwelling. They would be positioned in a line ,sometimes with a cross section of wood attached, to separate one space with another, for example the meeting room and the sleeping area.
Estimated Period: Early 20th Century
Height: 152 cm
Width: 26 cm
MNM.HEO
(Click on images to enlarge)
