Unidentified Senufo Artist
Date:
1950s
Medium:
Wood
Size:
Depth: 9 5/8″
Width: 11″
Height: 50 1/2″

The figure’s erect body, level gaze, and echoing geometry of breasts and stomach create an icon of womanhood. This artwork represents marriage, ancestors, and community. Until the 1980s, sculptures like this one—which would have been paired with a similarly-sized male figure—were displayed at the funeral celebrations of respected elders for four to five days. Their presence visualized the continuity of community through the passing of generations.

Purchase With Exchange Funds from Gift of Alan Wurtzburger BMA 1960.58