Senefu Bird Couple

Senefu Bird Couple, Ivory Coast, Africa

According to the Senufo belief, the Hornbull, along with the Tortoise , the crocodile, the chameleon and the sepent – was one of the first living creatures.  The long phallic beak touching its own swollen belly suggesting pregnancy, represents the dual forces of the male and female components, symbolizing the need for both to ensure the continuity of the whole community.  The image of this bird is taken from the native Yellow Casqued Hornbill bird, which the Senufo believe is the master of all arrogant birds and associated with intellectual power, significant of the knowledge the elders hope to impart on the you initiates.

Leave a Reply