Mémoire d’Afrique — Ref. 196

Ritual male statue — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 196

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Photo 1 — Ritual male statue — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 196
Photo 2 — Ritual male statue — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 196
Photo 3 — Ritual male statue — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 196
Photo 4 — Ritual male statue — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 196
Photo 5 — Ritual male statue — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 196
Photo 6 — Ritual male statue — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 196
Photo 7 — Ritual male statue — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 196
Photo 8 — Ritual male statue — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 196
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Description

This wooden statue, carved by the Bambara of Mali, embodies a male figure with elongated and stylised forms. The upright posture, with one arm holding an elongated object, evokes a ritual function, potentially linked to a spiritual or protective role.
Bambara statues are often used in initiatory contexts, particularly within the Komo or Gwan societies, where they serve as mediators between humans and spirits. The presence of an object held in the hand may symbolise authority, mystical power or a sacred weapon.
The angular style and stretched proportions recall Bambara aesthetics, marked by an abstraction of forms and a strong symbolic charge. The sculpture shows a patina of use, with traces of erosion that attest to its age. The naturally cracked wood bears the marks of time, reinforcing its authenticity and cultural importance.

Technical details

Availability
Unavailable
Type of piece
Statue
Category
Statues
Ethnic group
Bambara
Country
Mali
Materials
wood
Dimensions
H 94 × W 10 × D 12 cm
Weight
2,2 kg
Estimated dating
second half 20th c.
Laboratory test
Not tested
Reference
196