PROSPERITY BIRD ON TURTLE BASE, SENUFO OF IVORY COAST

Ivory Coast. A carved and painted wooden Senufo bird figure, commonly known as a prosperity bird. The sculpture is modeled with an elongated, downward-curving beak, long, slender legs, an upright body, and large, vertical wings decorated with white-painted spots and incised linear details. The figure stands on a carved turtle-form base with geometric incised decoration. In Senufo tradition, bird figures are associated with fertility, protection, prosperity, initiation, and the transmission of knowledge within the community. The bird is often seen as a powerful emblem associated with ancestral continuity. The turtle-form base suggests endurance, spiritual grounding, and the connection between the earthly and spirit realms. Dimentions approximately 26 x 9 x 7.5 inches In Very Good condition. Surface wear throughout, including scratches, abrasions, and scattered chipping. Chipping is most noticeable along the edges of the turtle base, toes, tail, wing tips, and sides of the wings. A crack measuring approximately 4 inches is visible at the front of the turtle base. Fine cracks are present along the back of the bird.

1413527

Special Collections - Downstairs

Price: $500