A rare Senufo couple Wood - 116 and 117 cm Ivory Coast Deble from Korhogo region, rhythm pounders used during ancestral rites and in initiations of adolescents to adult society; it was also a benevolent symbol of fertility and a conduit to the departed. The few known male and female rhythm pounder pairs are thought to represent the primordial couple, referred to as ‘Pombibele’, which means ‘those who gave birth’. These pounders were traditionally used at funeral ceremonies by Poro society members. In some areas, they are actually pounded, at others, they are gathered at the centre of the ceremonial grounds. Deble are held by their arms and pounded on the ground to mark a rhythm for dancers. The worn arms on these pieces show it was used repeatedly. Fine aged patina from light brown to black and some erosion. The carver clearly defined the male and female physical characteristics, prominent breast and bottom, slim waist, ... An other work by the same carver can be seen in the book ‘Côte d’Ivoire Premiers regards sur la sculpture 1850 - 1935’ by Bertrand Goy published by the Gallery Shoffel-Valluet, Paris, in 2012, n°64. Provenance: Private collection, Belgium.