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The
Senufo of the Ivory Coast are known for their tradition of making small,
brass wearable objects in the form of amulets, bracelets, and rings. Collectively,
they are known as yawiige. The brasscaster plays a special role in Senufo
culture. He has a seemingly magical connection with fire and the special
practices of extracting metal from the earth. Works such as these are
said to contain the "fluid" of consecrated objects. The pieces
shown here are representations of protective spirits known as madebele.
These bush spirits take their place in the forest and the water surrounding
the Senufo territory, and require constant appeasement, which people do
by wearing them in the form of brass yawiige.
The heavier, more elaborate
bracelet here represents the python (fo). Python bracelets generally have
markings signifying the eyes, lungs, and heart -symbols of life and vitality
for the Senufo. Sando divination is regarded as the only safe way to achieve
vitality and good health. These python bracelets are a typical mark of
a Senufo diviner, but
are also worn by men to mark their wealth and status. The thinner bracelet
depicts an anthropomorphic bush spirit.
Senufo women and children
typically wear the brass tortoise and chameleon amulets on a string around
the neck, wrists, or ankles. These animal spirits are protective, as they
are expressions of the benevolent mythical ancestors (or totem animals)
of the wearer’s family. To the Senufo, chameleons also signify traits
of sorcery, primal knowledge and supernatural powers of transformation.
The chameleon ring can be worn on a string, but is typically fashioned
to be worn on a man’s finger. Its double band configuration symbolizes
twins.
According to Senufo legend,
twins were the firstborn of the first humans of the creator god (Kolotyolo),
and thus have a particular relationship to Senufo ancestors. Ancestor
spirits are highly respected and have the potential to bring both good
and bad luck. The Senufo have specialized treatment of twins, as they
are seen to possess that same potential for good and bad fortune. Some
women will draw on the power of twins to ensure a fortuitous day at the
market by bringing along a brass amulet depicting twins.
Aretha Witham ’04
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