Senufo Bracelet, Nyiakayi (nyikaryi) Subgroup, Korhogo Region, Ivory Coast, 19th Century

A wrought iron divination bracelet, forming a twisted spiral ring, terminated by a stylized bovine head. The long, tapering horns extend the dynamic of the circle, while the hammered head, reduced to its essentials, expresses a powerful and refined animal form. The whole piece displays a regular and vibrant twist, characteristic of the traditional work of blacksmiths from the Korhogo region. Antique wrought iron, patina from use, stabilized corrosion (see photos). Senufo, Nyiakayi (Nyikaryi) subgroup, Korhogo region, Ivory Coast, presumed 19th century. Dimensions: 10 × 9.4 cm. Provenance: former private collection, Paris.* Shipping costs upon request. "Twisted iron bracelets surmounted by a bovine head are among the ritual insignia of Senufo diviners, particularly among the Nyiakayi of the Korhogo region, as highlighted by the work of André Blandin. Used during divination consultations, these rings materialized the diviner's connection with protective animal forces. The bovine, a symbol of power, stability, and fertility, occupies a central place in the Senufo mythological universe. Some villages favored snake heads, others bovine heads, which allows for a coherent ethnographic attribution here. Through its ancient twist, the expressive tension of the animal head, and its masterful modeling, this bracelet embodies one of the most characteristic ritual objects in the repertoire of diviners from the Korhogo region."