Shango cane

Shango, also known by the name of Jakuta, is the Yoruba God of Thunder. He was the son of Oyo and unlike his peaceful brother Ajaka, Jakuta was a violent ruler fascinated with magic. This fascination led him to create lightning and he would punish his enemies using his ability to control thunder. One day, unable to control this power when his temper exploded, lightning descended from the sky and burnt down the capital, killing many people and most of his wives and children. His remorse was such, that he committed suicide. The Oshe Shango (cane) is one of the prominent ritual objects used for honoring Shango. In its basic form, it is a female figure projecting from its head a double axe to represent the thunderbolts that Shango hurled at those who offended him. However, designs may vary due to the unlimited iconography of Shango worship and because of the artist’s creative autonomy.