Small statues called 'deble' an abbreviation of
'madebele' which means spirit, are used by Senufo diviners (Sando’o).
Human in form, they represent the bush or nature spirits to assist people
to maintain good health, achieve success, & develop satisfactory relationships with friends and family. Spirits can also be responsible for
people’s illness or hardship. Diviners commissioned artists to carve
the ‘Deble’ to appeal to the unpredictable spirits and seek their goodwill
and appease them. An unusual figure donning a helmet/hat.
Ex. Allen Davis Collection, Virgina
DIMENSIONS: Height: 8 1/8“ x Width: 1 ľ" x Depth: 1 ľ”
NOTE: Some splits in the base, which has been repaired.
