Senufo polychrome wooden figure

Artistic Details
The figure stands out for its stylization and attention to detail. The carving reflects the mastery of the Senufo craftsmen, who have passed down their technique from generation to generation. The colors used —red, blue, and yellow— not only beautify the piece but also hold symbolic meanings in Senufo culture. Red can symbolize fertility and life, blue tranquility and wisdom, and yellow is associated with wealth and abundance.

Origin and Cultural Context
The Senufo are an ethnic group mainly living in northern Côte d'Ivoire and southern Mali. Their culture is known for its strong connection to visual arts and spiritual rituals. This figure, likely carved in the mid-20th century, would have been used in ceremonies and rituals related to fertility and family protection.

Village and Cultural Practices
Senufo villages are typically agricultural communities where traditions and customs are kept alive. The female figure is a symbol of fertility, essential in the community's daily life as agriculture and procreation are seen as interdependent. Through this sculpture, one can glimpse the central role of women in Senufo society, not only as mothers and caretakers but also as a fundamental pillar of culture and spirituality.

History and Meaning
The figure aligns with the Senufo people's beliefs in the relationship between nature and the divine. Female representations in their art are not mere decorations; they are invocations to the life forces that ensure prosperity and well-being. The female figure, especially in its naked form, represents a celebration of natural beauty and feminine strength, as well as a reminder of the vital role women play in the continuity of life and culture.