A Senufo bronze horse rider, Mali. Certificate of origin and provenance
.
The Senufo, bronze horse rider is a remarkable example of traditional West African metalwork, originating from the Senufo people who inhabit regions of northern Côte d’Ivoire, southern Mali, and Burkina Faso. Crafted using the lost-wax casting method, these bronzes typically depict a stylized figure mounted on a horse, emphasizing symbolic rather than realistic features. The horse, a recurring symbol of nobility and power in West African culture, signifies status and spiritual authority, while the rider often represents a warrior, ancestor, or chieftain. These sculptures were not merely decorative; they served important ritualistic and ceremonial purposes, reflecting the Senufo's deeply spiritual worldview. Such figures were associated with ancestor worship and were believed to embody protective or mystical powers. Today, Senufo bronze horse riders are celebrated for their artistic and cultural significance, and they can be found in major museum collections around the world, illustrating the enduring legacy of Senufo craftsmanship and spiritual expression.

Chat GPT

sold

Height: 8 cm
Weight: 70 g