Just as the horse was an elite possession in Africa from very early times, the depiction of horse and riders in art was reserved for elite objects made for chiefs and high-ranking members of society. The uniqueness of this bronze ring is as impressive as the artistry. Seated on a saddle, the rider, who is a warrior/hunter, holds a staff or portion of a spear in his right hand; while draped over his left shoulder is a shield (or bag) fashioned into an attractive spiral design. The convenient shoulder strap allows him to hold onto the horn of the saddle, as man and horse pause to rest and survey the landscape. It is quite likely this ring was made for, and owned by, an important warrior or chief; worn with pride as a symbol of his triumphs in battle against enemy and beasts.