Senufo Standing Female Figure with Hands on Head

Both hands on her head, forming two open rings around her face. It is a gesture. We have not been told of what.

Senufo brass and bronze figures were made for diviners and personal shrines, and served as intermediaries with the spirits. This one is from Mali, 20th century, six inches of bronze. Bracelets band the arms, and a collar circles the neck. The long torso is covered in incised chevrons and crosshatching. A thick ring marks the waist above short legs and broad feet. Narrow face, slit eyes, a projecting mouth. Dark, mottled patina.

She will not explain herself. Intermediaries seldom do.