Figure

The presented figurine, by its shape, resembles a coiled snake. It probably comes from the ancient city of Djenne-Jeno, located near the medieval Malian city of Djenne, which is considered one of the oldest cities in sub-Saharan Africa. It was founded in the 3rd century BC and flourished between the 6th and 9th centuries when up to 20,000 people inhabited it. It owes its development primarily to its suitable location on the trade route between the Sahara and the lands south of the Niger River. One of the more interesting archaeological discoveries from Djenne-Jeno is the terracotta sculptures, which primarily represent human figures. Besides anthropomorphic figures, zoomorphic sculptures have also been found in the region. Prevalent are depictions of snakes, which were usually presented as coiled or writhing. The images of writhing snakes were often placed on tiny figurines or vessels. These reptiles probably occupied an essential place in the myths and folklore of the region.

Katarzyna Findlik-Gawron