Statue Of Deble From The Senufo People Of Ivory Coast

Large and beautiful ritual statue, a Deble from Ivory Coast, made of solid wood with a patina of use, also called a Rhythm Pounder. Height 124cm plus base. Damage to the feet. The Poro society commissioned statues like this from master sculptors to be carried and used during ritual processions or placed on the ground to serve as a focal point for ceremonial dancers. This type of sculpture was used in various ritual functions before or after the death of an elder member of the Poro. The statue was placed next to the body of the deceased and covered with a shroud. It was then carried in the funeral procession and accompanied the deceased to the burial site. It was swung from side to side and back and forth, striking the ground rhythmically to accompany the music (this is why they often reach us damaged). At the end of the ceremony, a close relative of the deceased must lift the statue and strike the ground seven times around the grave to ensure that the spirit does not remain in the Near the village. Beautiful collector's item. Careful and free shipping within the European Union. €350 worldwide.