West African Lost Wax Bronze Figural Bracelet Attributed to Lobi / Senufo / Gan Peoples

This remarkable African tribal bracelet features a spirally forged iron band with a central lost-wax cast bronze figure, characteristic of high-skill metallurgical traditions in West Africa. The stylized anthropomorphic figure mounted on the loop suggests a protective or ceremonial function, consistent with wrist ornaments worn by spiritual specialists or community leaders.
One figure is missing, indicating it may have once been part of a paired or symmetrical design.

Attributed to Senufo or Lobi-speaking peoples of the Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso region (West Africa), where combined iron and alloyed bronze work was integral to ritual dress and status regalia. Similar forms have been documented in museum collections as personal talismans or initiation adornments used in rites or as markers of authority. The small size and fine casting suggest it was worn close to the body rather than as arm adornment in everyday utilitarian contexts.

Circa late 19th to early 20th century.

Made using the lost-wax (cire-perdue) casting technique for the bronze figure and hand-twisted iron for the band. Provenance: Egon Guenther Collection.

Dimensions
Diameter 83.5 mm
Inside Diameter 79 mm
Thickness 5.35 mm
Weight: 41 grams