Abstract Bamana/Bambara Chiwara Carved Wood Figure Headdress from Mali - 27.5" H X 9.5" D X 2.5" W

Bamana/Bambara dancers originally used these Chiwara headpieces during ceremonies which occurred during pre-planting and harvesting months to portray humanized antelopes. This contemporary one depicts a male antelope with two curved horns along with an aardvark. Their bodies are covered with incised decoration, have an amazing dark brown patina, and rest on a new acrylic base. This piece is a great representation of the more abstract style from the Southern Banama. 

African sculpture such as this will stand out while complementing any décor taste from Mid-Century, Warm Minimalism, Organic-Inspired, California Casual, Japandi... to Wabi Sabi or Coastal Modern Design.

Place of Origin: Mali

Date of Manufacture: late-20th Century 

Condition: Excellent

Wear: Consistent with age and use. Please refer to pictures.

Dimensions:

Figure: 26 in. H X 2.5 in. W X 9.5 in. D  

Base: 8.5 in. L X 4.5 in. W X 1.5 in. H

Total:  27.5 in. H 

Reference: 

The Met

Penn Museum

Cincinnati Art Museum

Birmingham Museum of Art

Spurlock Museum of World Cultures at the University of Illinois

University of Missouri Museum of Art & Archaeology

Maxwell Museum of Anthropology at the University of New Mexico

Explore more African Carved Wood at Our Taste Design.