Religious club. Authority symbol.

[Edster]

Tim,

This is a fascinating piece. As you suggest, I'd go with Catholic religious scepter/mace iconography. However, I don't really see African or Indian idioms. Why couldn't it be a piece of Primitive or Outsider devotional art, even European or US. The white designs could even be plastic. Hopefully, others with a more sophisticated eye can add more.

Regards,
Ed