Bamana Antelope Chi Wara Headcrest on Basketry Base Mali MATTER COLLECTION

A lovely Chi Wara Headcrest from the Bamana people of Mali, on a fragile basketry base. The Bamana, also known as Bambara, constitute one of the largest ethnic groups in their region. With agriculture at the core of their traditional way of life, Bamana society and art are deeply influenced by issues related to the natural cycles and the productivity of farmers. The Ci-wara (or Chiwara, Tyi Wara) society plays a crucial role in passing down knowledge of agricultural practices from one generation to the next, and its primary purpose is to pay homage to successful farmers. Rooted in ancient legends, the rituals of the Ci-wara society revolve around a mythical creature, sometimes identified as a roan antelope (Hippotragus Leucophaeus) or anteater (Manis temmincki), combined with elements of a python or a half-human, half-animal being named Ci-wara. This mythical figure is credited with introducing agriculture to humanity. The Bamana people express their reverence for accomplished farmers through ceremonial performances featuring intricately carved wood crest masks representing the antelope. These Ci-wara crest masks take center stage in agricultural contests, entertainment events, and the annual celebration. The masquerade ceremonies unfold during both planting and harvesting seasons, taking place in the fields and the village palace. The dance involves the collaboration of two individuals, portraying a male and female pair in a symbolic representation of the agricultural cycle. Provenance: Matter Collection From the collection of Margie and Phil Matter. Margie lived in South Africa, and later she and her husband Phil opened a gallery in Tucson. Everything in this collection was in their home for more than thirty years. Africa Direct recently bought the collection; at 95, Margie wants to share the things she has loved so much. The basketry base isn't solid and needs repair, or can be propped up on the inside (as we have done for the photos) or even removed. It doesn't stand very well on its own.Height (In) 20.0Width (In) 11.0Depth (In) 8.0 Off Base: 16 x 11 x 3 inches 153933

Bamana Antelope Chi Wara Headcrest on Basketry Base Mali MATTER COLLECTION

A lovely Chi Wara Headcrest from the Bamana people of Mali, on a fragile basketry base.

The Bamana, also known as Bambara, constitute one of the largest ethnic groups in their region. With agriculture at the core of their traditional way of life, Bamana society and art are deeply influenced by issues related to the natural cycles and the productivity of farmers. The Ci-wara (or Chiwara, Tyi Wara) society plays a crucial role in passing down knowledge of agricultural practices from one generation to the next, and its primary purpose is to pay homage to successful farmers.

Rooted in ancient legends, the rituals of the Ci-wara society revolve around a mythical creature, sometimes identified as a roan antelope (Hippotragus Leucophaeus) or anteater (Manis temmincki), combined with elements of a python or a half-human, half-animal being named Ci-wara. This mythical figure is credited with introducing agriculture to humanity. The Bamana people express their reverence for accomplished farmers through ceremonial performances featuring intricately carved wood crest masks representing the antelope.

These Ci-wara crest masks take center stage in agricultural contests, entertainment events, and the annual celebration. The masquerade ceremonies unfold during both planting and harvesting seasons, taking place in the fields and the village palace. The dance involves the collaboration of two individuals, portraying a male and female pair in a symbolic representation of the agricultural cycle.

Provenance: Matter Collection

From the collection of Margie and Phil Matter. Margie lived in South Africa, and later she and her husband Phil opened a gallery in Tucson. Everything in this collection was in their home for more than thirty years. Africa Direct recently bought the collection; at 95, Margie wants to share the things she has loved so much.

The basketry base isn't solid and needs repair, or can be propped up on the inside (as we have done for the photos) or even removed. It doesn't stand very well on its own.

Height (In) 20.0
Width (In) 11.0
Depth (In) 8.0

Off Base:
16 x 11 x 3 inches

153933