This is a figure found in Djenne Mali with a snake on its back. Djenne means “water spirit” in the Boso language. While vessels and abstract terracotta pieces thought to be ancient burial goods have been found at the Djenne ruins, this is a rare figurative artifact. The head of the figure, seated in a style resembling seiza, is painted with black pigment. Two writhing snakes crawl across its back. This piece was acquired by a Dutch gallery from a gallery in Segou (Mali). PROVENANCE: Gallery/ Antique Dealer