Senufo Wood Carved Male Rhythm Pounder Deble

Ivory Coast A masterful carving of powerful form, balancing positive and negative space. He stands on a cylindrical base and limbs are carved as elongated forms, his knees slightly bent, rounded shoulders and curved arms resting at mid torso. His fine head with crested coiffure and recessed eyes in a heart shaped face. This object, called a deble, was used at Poro festivities, such as initiations and funerals. Deble are held by their upper arms and pounded on the ground to mark a rhythm for dancers. They represent the tribes ideal standard of beauty. Weathered and varied dark patina indicative of usage. Size 40 inches (101 cm) + custom mount.Ex Morton Lipkin Collection.