What is a Shepherds Crook?
A shepherd’s crook is not only an image that appears in ancient to modern art, but is also a very useful tool for shepherds who are navigating fields of varying height or uneven terrain. The crook symbol, a stick with a c-curve at the top, looking much like an oversized candy cane, has been in existence for millennia. The crook and the flail were two symbols associated with the ancient Egyptian god, Osiris. Pharaohs carried such crooks to evoke the godlike nature of their rule, and also as symbolic that they shepherded or led their people. You will also see numerous depictions in art of Jesus Christ carrying a shepherd’s crook, since he is frequently referred to as the shepherd of Christian followers. Early versions of the shepherd’s crook were likely carved or constructed from wood, or often horn. In fact the crooked handle may be called the horn. Length of the staff is variable. A shorter person would want a shorter crook, with the handle no higher than, or slightly below the hip. As
