Guardian Spirit Cavalier

Guardian Spirit Cavalier

“Cavalier,” or Female Equestrian Figure

Senufo Culture

Senufo

Africa, Ivory Coast, Korhogo area

The Cavalier is a stylized Senufo sculpture of a woman riding an unusual animal with large ears and what appear to be a small trunk and tusks. The rider, or equestrian, is very large in relation to the animal, which illustrates her power and prestige. Her scarification shows her maturity, status, and membership in the Sandogo women’s association. Because the animal here is not a horse but perhaps a stylized elephant or even a supernatural combination of several animals, this indicates a connection with power and the supernatural, as well as the equestrian’s power over this animal.

While female equestrians are more rare in African sculpture than male equestrians, this particular depiction would not be unusual because the Senufo are matrilineal; they respect and revere the power of women, especially the female elders of their community. Senufo equestrians usually portray bush (nature) spirits, but the most powerful Senufo ancestral spirit is the Ancient Mother. As the Ancient Mother is frequently portrayed in Senufo sculpture in the manner displayed here, she is likely the personage portrayed.

Research by Marie Swan and Lynley Farris, 2005, Missouri State University Students. Mentor: Dr. Billie Follensbee

20th century, (before 1974)

139.7 cm h x 38.1 cm l x 43.2 cm w

sculpture

wood

carving

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Stoneman

1985.44

1985

20110010