Pilgrim's Staff (Oulle Sheikh Hussein)

This delicate forked staff was carried by a pilgrim visiting the tomb of Sheikh Hussein, a 13th century Ethiopian Islamic saint. Thousands of believers participated in the pilgrimage to his shrine in Ethiopia’s Oromo region twice a year. The pilgrim staff (Oulle Sheikh Hussein) is not meant to assist with walking but instead to identify travelers as pilgrims, which entitles them to hospitality. The staff also offers mystical protection: Pilgrims adorn them with brass or copper, prayer beads, and leaves of the hallucinogenic khat plant. Here, the objects’ scented oils and frequent use have created a shiny patina.