Gan culture, south-west Burkina Faso, 19th century
Copper alloy
Length: 8 cm; Length: 5.7 cm
Debira pendants are the plastic expression of the Torfan. He is a spiritual entity who can manifest himself in many forms, such as a snake, tortoise, chameleon, panther or caiman. Its representations can vary, and fetishes can have from one to ten heads.
As a protective figure, it keeps evil spirits away from people and livestock, and favours harvests and hunting.
Ref. : 4152