Description:

West Africa, Burkina Faso or Ivory Coast, Senufo, ca. mid-20th century CE. A brass statue of a standing nude woman adorned with a square openwork headdress featuring a simple reptile motif, a style traditionally worn during dance performances. The figure is depicted with a herniated stomach and a pronounced belly button, symbolizing fertility. Among the Senufo, both men's and women's secret societies frequently employ wood or metal figurines in rituals, divination, and spiritual protection. One notable type of Senufo figure is the deble, usually a wooden sculpture representing a woman, which serves as a "rhythm pounder" in fertility rituals to ensure the abundance of crops. Senufo figures are crafted not only for their aesthetic appeal but also to attract, house, and facilitate communication with spirits, blending artistic beauty with profound spiritual significance. While this piece's ritual use is uncertain, its intricate details beautifully capture the essence of traditional Senufo spirituality. Size: 2.2" L x 2" W x 10.8" H (5.6 cm x 5.1 cm x 27.4 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Bruce Burt collection, exhibited at his gallery in New York, City, New York, USA in the 1970s

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#190196

  • Condition: Casting imperfections and some pitting, but otherwise intact and great condition.

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December 6, 2024 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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