Origin: South-East Mali (between Fouro and Sikasso) Ethnic group: Sénoufo Material: Carved semi-hard wood Period: Mid-20th century or earlier Dimensions: 47 × 16.5 × 16 cm Weight: 918.5 g Important Sénoufo female figure surmounted by a stylised primordial hornbill (Calao), a sacred bird central to Sénoufo cosmology and initiation symbolism. The seated female figure, identified as a royal attendant (“Servante de la reine Katyéléyo”), is depicted with traditional coiffure and facial scarification. The hornbill above, carved in strong abstracted geometry, represents creation, fertility, and ancestral continuity. The sculpture appears to be carved from a single block of wood, consistent with traditional Sénoufo craftsmanship. The vertical crack visible along the torso and back corresponds to natural wood aging and long-term drying of a solid carved piece. The surface presents an old, dry patina with visible handling wear and age-related shrinkage cracks, indicating age and probable ritual or ceremonial use. No evidence of modern machine carving is observed. Condition: Structurally stable. Age cracks and surface wear consistent with age and use. No recent restoration detected. Shipping: Carefully packed and insured. Accompanied by a gallery certificate of authenticity.