H x W x D: 8.9 x 2.4 x 0.8 cm (3 1/2 x 15/16 x 5/16 in.)
Type:
Sculpture
Geography:
Côte d'Ivoire
Date:
20th century
Label Text:
This snake ornament was probably kept in a shrine. It would have served as protection against harmful spiritual forces or from actual snake bite. Long, slender examples were worn as amulets on the lower legs.
Description:
Copper alloy snake with seven twisting turns, incised cross-hatch design, bulging slit eyes and incised nostrils.
Provenance:
Roy and Brigitta Mitchell, Washington, D.C., -- to 2010
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