Staffs in southern Africa were carved with a wide variety of finials, from abstract, geometric forms to animal and human figures. This handsome Nguni staff exemplifies that tradition, presenting a prominent head with wide-set eyes, full cheeks, lifted chin and a simple coiffure. A warm brown patina lends a rich beauty to the portrait. Raised surfaces are lightened with wear, providing highlights that crisply define the carving of the cap-like coiffure and almond-shaped eyes. A subtly raised band at the grasping point provides the sole variation in an otherwise smooth shaft.