Senufo Figures (paired)
Ivory Coast
A pair of figures constructed along a vertical axis, each organised as an attenuated, elongated mass, weight-bearing through base integration, the base carved as a continuous extension of the figure.
Description
Carved from a single wood block, each figure is organised through extended columnar legs rising into a reduced torso. The torso projects forward along a continuous anterior arc from abdomen to chest. The arms descend in long parallel lines along either side of the torso. The heads project outward as distinct masses. The male figure incorporates a projecting avian element surmounted by a vertically rising blade-like crest with parallel striation. The female figure is distinguished by an integrated curved crest projecting forward from the cranial mass.
Incised geometric motifs are confined principally to the head and selected areas of the torso and limbs.
The two figures form a male and female pair, differing principally in the construction of the cranial crest while maintaining a common elongated body structure and attenuated proportions.
Surface is compact and stable. Patina is retained across both figures; exposure at projecting elements.
Context
Among the Senufo, figures of this type are used within initiation and funerary structures.
Provenance
From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Ivory Coast, 1971.
Details
- Title
- Senufo Figures (paired)
- Culture
- Senufo
- Origin
- Ivory Coast
- Date
- 20th century
- Dimensions
- Male figure: H 156 cm (61.4 in) · W 16 cm (6.3 in); Female figure: H 151 cm (59.4 in) · W 14 cm (5.5 in)
- Medium
- Wood
- Provenance
- From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Ivory Coast, 1971.
- Condition
- Surface stable; exposure at projecting elements.
