Among the most famous statues of African art are a series known as the Pombibele, “those who give birth.” This large sculpture, appropriately enough in the form of a woman, would have been used during the funeral ceremonies of Poro members, a male "secret" society, headed by the village elders, where the sacred knowledge of manhood is transferred to young initiates. In the southern Senufo area, these statues are carried and then pounded on the ground, providing rhythm for the dancers.