Ebony Wood Figurative Staff - Possibly Zulu, South Africa

We bought this piece in Africa so many years ago that we honestly don't remember where. It is ebony wood, and we think we got it in KwaZulu Natal.
It has aluminum eyes, and a wonderful expression on its face. We have never (until now), made this piece available.

Staffs in Africa have numerous & varied uses, ranging from the practical function of a walking stick to the symbolism of political, spiritual or status symbols.
There is a carved snake that coils around the staff, which also has aluminum eyes.

Height: 24 1/2" on its 3 ½" square metal base.