Large female figure "doogele" or "deble" ·  Côte d'Ivoire, Senufo · ID: 3052880

Description

wood, base

Such imposing figures belonged to the “poro” men’s secret society and originally appeared in pairs, male and female. They are known as the “children of the poro”, called “pombibele” (sing.: “pombia”). Their role was to stand guard at the “kpaala” and to demonstrate that the “poro” was present in the village and fulfilling its duties properly. For this reason, the figures were expected to be visually impressive, and they were re-oiled or repainted before each use.

Comparing literature

Förster, Till, Die Kunst der Senufo aus Schweizer Sammlungen, Zürich 1988, p. 68 ff.