The Gan in Burkina Faso were only recently recognised as an independent ethnicity. Previously, their works were attributed to their neighbouring groups, the Lobi or the Kulango. Today the bronze ornaments of the Gan are especially sought-after and valued by connoisseurs. For in precisely this area the Gan have created artistically and technically impressive works. For example, these arm bracelets (or armrings) offered here, made of brass/bronze, executed with ‘waste mould’ casting: the imposing ornament consists of a simple, encircling, thick snake. Its broad head, with its wide open mouth and eyes which protrude on both sides, points below from the circular ring of the snake body. It is next to the S-shaped curved tail of the snake. Above, on the interface, where the encircling snake body forms a ring, sits a small, female figure (or a female fabulous being?) in typical Gan style. A highly impressive, old piece and a ‘unique’ object. This is because it is made of brass, executed with ‘waste mould’ casting, with only a few minute casting defects and minimal verdigris flecks on the metal alloy (due to the copper ratio). Otherwise, with a shiny, reddish-brown patina, which forms naturally as a result of the considerable age of such a cast object. A masterpiece of Gan casting.
Height: 18.5 cm (from the snake’s head to the figure’s head); diameter: c. 11 cm (the bracelet). First half of the 20th century or earlier. (ME)

Provenance: German private collection.