Bamana Chi Wara Male Headcrest On Stand Mali Africa Statute

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Bamana Chi Wara Male Headcrest On Stand Mali Africa Statute:
$700.00

NO INTERNATIONAL BUYERS!!!!!

Title Bamana Chi Wara Antelope Male Headcrest Mali Africa

Type of Object Mask

Country of Origin Mali

People Bamana

Materials Wood, pigment, hair

Approximate Age mid 20th Century

Dimensions 19.2 inches H. (From tip of hair to bottom of stand) x 6.35 inches

Damage/Repair Scuffs and Minimal wear. This piece comes from my personal collection. I\'ve relocated to a smaller place and there is no room for all 33 masks I own. My loss, is your gain.

Additional Information: A vertically oriented Chi-wara. This piece is very well carved by talented hands and has a very rich and dark patina. The body is covered in a beautifully detailed pattern of geometric shapes, lines and angles. This piece is a great example of one of the most desireble pieces in African art.

The Bamana (also called Bambara) are among the largest ethnic groups in their region. Because traditional life revolves around agriculture, issues concerning the cycles of nature and the productivity of farmers inform Bamana society and art. Knowledge of agriculture practices is transmitted from generation to generation through the Ci-wara (or Chiwara, Tyi Wara) society. The purpose of the Chi-wara society is to pay homage to successful farmers. Their rituals recall the legend of the mythic animal that could be (according to different regions) a roan antelope (Hippotragus Leucophaeus) or anteater, a pangolin (Manis temmincki) and a python or a mythic half man, half-animal creature called Ci-wara, who introduced agriculture to men. The Bamana people honor successful farmers through performances involving the appearances of the antelope masks like this carved wood crest mask. Ci-wara crest masks are worn at agricultural contests, entertainment and at the annual celebration. The masquerade ceremonies occur during planting and harvesting seasons in the fields and the village palace. The dance is performed by two men acting as a male / female pair.

Recommended Reading: Brett-Smith\'s THE MAKING OF BAMANA SCULPTURE-CREATIVITY AND GENDER, and superb examples in BAMANA-THE ART OF EXISTENCE IN MALI, edited by Colleyn.