Gan Serpent Pendant with Bird Shaped Suspension Loop

The loop at the top is a bird. The pendant under it is a serpent. They are in conversation.

Gan casters of Burkina Faso, West Africa, made this serpent pendant with a bird shaped suspension loop in bronze in the 20th century. The Gan are known for cast pendants and staffs with serpent imagery, which are commonly associated with protection. A small bird forms the top of the piece. Below, the serpent coils through a ring, with a diamond-shaped head with round eyes at the lower end. The dark brown bronze is smooth with some golden highlights. It sits on a stand.

About 4 inches tall. A small thing with a big, elegant idea.