Tim, regarding the Barum cup.....the belief that Rhino horn neutralised poisons was also prevalent in Asia and Europe and there are numerous examples of similar cups.....which I found surprising.
The mystical powers of Rhino horn are mainly concerning increased sexual power and longevity. With the combination of the carved female form and the phallic symbolism of the staff, suggests a fertilty or a 'right of passage' ritualistic device.
Perhaps the 6 fingered hand is symbolic of the female connection to a diety (creator ?), the bringer of life?
It is also possible that the 6 fingered hand is a direct representation of an individual. In tight knit communities genetic anomolies would be 'consentrated' in a localised area, if this was the case, perhaps it is a form of tribal/community identity.
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