Debira Pendant Depicting A Serpent - Gan Culture, South-west Burkina Faso - 19th Century  

DEBIRA PENDANT depicting a SERPENT with a sinuous body and double suspension rings. 
Gan culture, South-West Burkina Faso, 19th century  
Copper alloy 
Length: 9.2 cm; Length: 4.7 cm 
 
Debira pendants are the plastic expression of the Torfan. He is a spiritual entity who can manifest himself in many forms, such as a snake, tortoise, chameleon, panther or caiman. Its representations can vary, and fetishes can have from one to ten heads.  
As a protective figure, it keeps evil spirits away from people and livestock, and promotes good harvests and hunting. 

Ref. : 4150