Label Text:
The muscular bodies, erect stances, and open arm gestures of these two wooden sculptures signify the fullness of power that Senufo bush spirits (madebele) may bestow upon individuals who seek aid through divination. During sessions by female Sando diviners, these finely carved figures act as metaphorical witnesses to the ceremony and intercede for spirits, ancestors, or recently deceased elders. The figures stand at the far edge of the mat on which the diviner and client sit during the rite. The sculptures offer guidance by “speaking” through the diviner’s ability to interpret the objects before her.
These statues constitute the most recent gift to the museum from Drs. James and Gladys Strain, the parents of Amherst College alumnus Dr. Jamie Strain, who have been generous donors of African art since 2001.
KG, 2011
The strong bodies and solid stances of these two figures represent the power that Senufo bush spirits (madebele) and revered ancestors could transfer to individuals who sought aid through divination. During sessions with Senufo diviners, who were part of an exclusive hereditary group of women (the Sandobele), these figures acted as conduits to the unseen spirit world.
PR, 2013
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