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Exhibition Guide

This image is owned by The Baltimore Museum of Art; permission to reproduce this work of art must be granted in writing. Third party copyright may also be involved.

Child of Poro (Pombibele)

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Art Object Info

Unidentified Senufo Artist

Medium:
Wood
Size:
Depth: 9 5/8"
Width: 11"
Height: 50 1/2"
Date:
1950s

The figure’s erect body, level gaze, and echoing geometry of breasts and stomach create an icon of womanhood. This artwork represents marriage, ancestors, and community. Until the 1980s, sculptures like this one—which would have been paired with a similarly-sized male figure—were displayed at the funeral celebrations of respected elders for four to five days. Their presence visualized the continuity of community through the passing of generations.

Purchase With Exchange Funds from Gift of Alan Wurtzburger BMA 1960.58

Child of Poro (Pombibele)

Unidentified Senufo Artist
Date:
1950s
Medium:
Wood
Size:
Depth: 9 5/8"
Width: 11"
Height: 50 1/2"

The figure’s erect body, level gaze, and echoing geometry of breasts and stomach create an icon of womanhood. This artwork represents marriage, ancestors, and community. Until the 1980s, sculptures like this one—which would have been paired with a similarly-sized male figure—were displayed at the funeral celebrations of respected elders for four to five days. Their presence visualized the continuity of community through the passing of generations.

Purchase With Exchange Funds from Gift of Alan Wurtzburger BMA 1960.58