Description

An old Dian or Lobi bronze divination ring of a chameleon.
Lobi country, as the region of southeastern Burkina Faso is referred to, is composed of various ethnic groups, amongst them, the Birifor, the Dagara, the Gan, the Lobi of course, as well as other minorities such as the Dian, the Dorossie, the Teguessie. All of these ethnic groups originating from Ghana, settled in successive waves in this region of Burkina Faso in the 18th century.
Chameleon rings are exclusively worn by men, indicating their initiation grade or level. The chameleon is considered to be a symbol of intelligence as it has a tremendous capacity to camouflage itself in its surroundings, and possesses all round vision.
The wearer of the chameleon ring is recognized to possess the wisdom; a much represented symbol, the chameleon is said to protect against various illnesses.
If one should accidentally kill a chameleon in nature, there could be very serious consequences, so the fetisher will order that the person wear a metal representation of the chameleon in the form of a ring, bracelet or pendant.
Length of chameleon: 4,5 cm (1 3/4″)
Superb patina , mid to late 20th century – Collected in Burkina Faso.

Inner diameter: 23,8mm
Weight: 33,5 grams
Ring size: 15