Odd Fellows Staff    Odd Fellows Staff

Odd Fellows Staff which has applied ram's horns with worn gilt decoration. Appears to have original red paint, with wear, on post. 34" L x 16" W (across tips of horns). Late 19th century. This form of staff was definitely used by members at fraternal meetings, but some doubt has been cast upon whether it was an actual part of regular ceremonies or was instead utilized in hazing rituals for initiates. We have an article suggesting that the latter was likely the case. This particular staff was exhibited in a display at the American Folk Art Museum in 2016. (CJ-32)
 
$650

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