The result of these trade relations was a mixing of Portuguese and Sapi artistic tradition, creating an Afro-Portuguese style of art.

This hybridization resulted in works of art that contained symbols, motifs, and imagery derived from both the Sapi and the Portuguese.

[3] Notably, Valentim Fernandes who visited the coast of Sierra Leone in the early 16th century noted that 'the ivory workers of this area were highly skilled and can also carve any work one draws'.

[6] [7]The use of an indigenous Sapi patronage system was quite similar to other parts of the world, Patrons commissioned pieces often prescribing specific desires and conditions, or even bringing a model for the artist to emulate.

[14] Burial practice amongst the Sapi involved the dead being vuried within or near their own houses, that person would be covered with gold bracelets on their arms, and rings called macucos in their noses and ears.

Above them, curving around the disk of ivory, are four delicately carved snakes that drop down toward four dogs represented in a state of alarm with bared fangs, drawn-back ears, and bristling fur.

Both types exhibit a daring use of open space and juxtapose finely executed textured patterns and genre-like details with smooth unadorned surfaces.