Deble Senoufo Statue, Ivory Coast

Very interesting Deble Senoufo statue, height 1.08 m, good condition. This type of statue was intended for the funerals of important members of the "Poro" society and was carried in procession by the initiates who slowly swing them from one side to the other, striking the ground from time to time to respond to the horns and drums, hence their designation as rhythm pounders. It is old, must date from the beginning of the last century, note the wear on the arms and torso which are the places where the dancers hold them, very beautiful patina of use, a little greasy.
The elongated and curved shapes make it look like a large insect, a sort of cubist praying mantis, a rare object of this antiquity and quality.