Door Panel, Secret Society Shrine

Description

Such decorated doors are found in the northern region of Senufoland. Doors are emblems of social status and prestige. They are used for the houses of important people and sacred architecture associated with a powerful secret society called Poro. The chameleon, tortoise, python, hornbill, and crocodile are cited in Senufo myths about the primordial world. Some symbolize fertility. The equestrian figure is an emblem of a diviner. The disk and cross-hatchings denote the sun and crop fields.