Cote d'Ivoire, Senufo people

n.d.

Wood, carved

60 h. x 8" dia. OVERALL

Carved wood male Pombia 'rhythm-pounder' figure is used to commemorate recently deceased Poro elders during funerals, and to ensure their safe passage into the land of ancestors. This figure presents with elongated features and stands on a circular base reflecting self-control and containment, ideal behaviors and attributes of inner beauty rather than physical appearance. Paired female and male rhythm pounders were principally used during funerals. As the corpse was carried to the burial ground, elders would pound on the ground with the figures, ritually purifying the pathway for the deceased and calling ancestral spirits. Paired figures are emblems of marriage but may represent twins or primordial founding ancestors. Rhythm pounders are owned by a small subgroup of artisans, the Celibele, who make a living as rope makers and tanners.

n.d.

Gift of Dr. Fima and Jere Lifshitz

2020.003.028