Pillar — Baga, Guinea — African tribal art — Ref. 157

Description

This carved pillar comes from the Baga ethnic group of Guinea and was probably used in a ritual or ceremonial context. Among the Baga, sculptures of this type are often associated with ancestral altars, initiatory ceremonies or representations of protective figures. The central element is an anthropomorphic figure whose stylised face and geometric forms recall Baga sculptural traditions.
An animal, probably a lizard, is carved above the figure, a frequent motif in Baga art, symbolising spiritual protection and the intercession of nature spirits. The Y-shaped top may evoke an architectural element or a ritual support used in initiatory ceremonies.
The piece is carved in old wood, with a natural patina testifying to its age. It measures 61 cm high, a dimension suggesting domestic or ritual use. Its rarity and sculptural character make it an object for collecting and ethnographic study.

Technical details

Type of piece

Mobilier

Category

Traditional furniture

Ethnic group

Baga

Country

Guinée

Materials

wood

Dimensions

H 61 × W 10 × D 20 cm

Weight

1 kg

Estimated dating

second half 20th c.

Laboratory test

Not tested

Reference

157