African Tribal Art: Senufo People, Ivory Coast: Hornbill With Brass & Cloth. Hand-carved from a solid piece of wood and decorated with red fabric under a chased and embossed brass metal overlay. Mid 20th Century.

Senufo bird figures refer to both the physical and intellectual aspects of life, which together assure the continuation of the community. The long, phallic beak touching the swollen belly suggestive of pregnancy alludes to the dual forces of male and female procreation.

43.5H x 27.25W x 22D (inches).

Private Collection, Massachusetts