Lobi Coiled Serpent Protector

Coiled snake with a ridged back and a keen, shiny eye.

This bronze coiled serpent protector figure is Lobi, from Burkina Faso, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. The Lobi live in southwestern Burkina Faso and neighboring countries, and their small cast bronzes are generally associated with protective spirits and personal shrines. Metal serpent curled into a loose ring, its head raised and turned slightly outward. Evenly spaced ribs run around the body, and fine detail marks the head and eye. A warm, slightly mottled yellowish tone shows darker in the grooves. It is 2.5 inches wide, 3.5 deep and 1 high.

Coiled up, patient and smug about it.