Bronze Zoomorphic sculptures

Mythical zoomorphic figures from Tenenkou in the Mali/Niger Delta region represent semi-divine beings.

During the height of the Mali Empire (12th to 15th century CE), the banks of the Niger River were home to various small tribes. These tribes were characterised by their distinctive deconstructed figurative art, featuring expressionistic renderings of body parts. Their technological prowess is evident in their metalwork. The horse, a traditional symbol of elite status, frequently appears in their artistic motifs.