In literature, Sabariko Koné is described as the most influencial carver of Senufo tribe. Though he was famous for not beeing the most productive one, he was a true master of the Gbato, a sub-group of the Senufo living in the region south of Boundiali. In his school in Ouézomon, he tought many students, mostly young man from his own family, like Tchétin Bêh Konaté from Zanguinasso or his own sons Yéralo, who died in 1960, or Meinyerigué Koné.

Typical for his style he developed over decades, are the long arms with a short curved ellbow and a very large upper body in proportion to the short legs with long defined feet. These proportions vary in scale of larger statues. But all his figures show a very characteristic volume and capacity. Statues he carved as a young man show similar proportions, but not yet a defined handwriting, like the top left single male Tugubele.

Later on Sabariko Koné developed the so-called Ouézomon-style, masks and statues with traditional Senufo elements like hairstyle, scars and arm jewelry.

Learn more about Sabariko Koné and his influence in our blog.