Mémoire d’Afrique — Ref. 160

Baga snake Bansonyi— Baga, Guinea — African tribal art — Ref. 160

Photo 1 — Baga snake Bansonyi— Baga, Guinea — African tribal art — Ref. 160
Photo 2 — Baga snake Bansonyi— Baga, Guinea — African tribal art — Ref. 160
Photo 3 — Baga snake Bansonyi— Baga, Guinea — African tribal art — Ref. 160
Photo 4 — Baga snake Bansonyi— Baga, Guinea — African tribal art — Ref. 160
Photo 5 — Baga snake Bansonyi— Baga, Guinea — African tribal art — Ref. 160
Photo 6 — Baga snake Bansonyi— Baga, Guinea — African tribal art — Ref. 160
Photo 7 — Baga snake Bansonyi— Baga, Guinea — African tribal art — Ref. 160
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Description

Imposing Baga Bansonyi snake-shaped sculpture, embodying the protective spirit “a-Mantsho-ña-Tshol”. With its remarkable dimensions and sinuous design, it is distinguished by its enlarged head and painted geometric motifs, symbolising protection and spirituality. A masterpiece of the Baga tradition, it illustrates their artistic genius and the power of their initiatory rituals.

Technical details

Type of piece
Masque
Category
Masks
Ethnic group
Baga
Country
Guinée
Materials
wood
Dimensions
H 196 × W 26 × D 42 cm
Weight
27,7 kg
Estimated dating
second half 20th c.
Laboratory test
Not tested
Reference
160