Cleveland Museum of Art

Bird Standard

Date

early to mid-1900s

Medium

Wood and upholstery studs

Culture

Africa, West Africa, Côte d'Ivoire, Senufo-style carver

Department

African Art

Institution

Cleveland Museum of Art

An eagle depicted in flight originally surmounting a long staff, the bird standard is offered to the winner of a hoeing contest between young men. The competition is not only meant to promote social cohesion and solidarity, it also serves to encourage fertility. Honoring the endurance of a victorious farmer, such a bird standard is also used as a display sculpture during the funeral of a former champion or a member of his courtyard or family unit.

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