Origin: Senufo people Region/Country: Côte d’Ivoire Material: Dense hardwood Height: 20.5 cm (24 cm with stand) Dating: Mid 20th century Provenance: Private collection Condition: Very good condition; smooth, uniform caramel patina; pulley wear marks clearly visible — see photos. Description An elegant and highly minimal loom pulley stirrup from the Senufo people, distinguished by its refined proportions and restrained sculptural language. Carved from a dense hardwood, this stirrup is surmounted by a stylized hornbill (calao) head, rendered in an angular and abstract manner. The hornbill is a significant symbolic figure in Senufo culture, often associated with wisdom, balance, and social order. Here, it is reduced to its essential forms, giving the object a strikingly modern presence. The surface displays a smooth, even caramel patina, the result of long use and handling. The wear marks left by the pulley are clearly visible, grounding the piece in its original function and attesting to its authenticity. Mounted on a simple wooden stand, this object transcends its utilitarian purpose to become a sculptural form in its own right—a fine example of the understated beauty found in traditional Senufo craftsmanship. Highlights - Authentic Senufo loom pulley stirrup - Stylized hornbill (calao) head, angular and minimalist - Carved from dense hardwood - Smooth caramel patina, uniform and silky - Clear wear marks from the pulley - Elegant, compact format (H 20.5 cm) - Offered without reserve