Talisman Figuring A Rider - Kotoko Culture, Central Africa - 19th Century

TALISMAN showing a RIDER called Putchu guinadji 
Kotoko culture, Central Africa, 19th century 
Copper alloy 
H. 6.8 ; L. 6.3 cm 
 
This horseman, also known as the Kotoko Horseman, refers to a magical force in the Sao culture. The horse represents evil and the man refers to the evil spirit. 
The Putchu guinadji, literally translated as "horses of madness", had the ability to ward off madness or insanity from the individual who wore this figurine as an amulet. Its small size meant that it could be carried everywhere by its owner, sometimes for several years.  
 
It is said that the Sao are the ancestors of the Kotoko. 
 
N°336 from the "Bronzes, monumental miniatures" exhibition-sale.