Male statue — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 201

Description

This male sculpture comes from the Bambara, or Bamana, people of Mali, known for the richness of their ritual artistic expressions, notably through initiatory societies such as Jo, Komo or Gwan. This standing figure, 90 cm high and weighing 5.1 kg, presents a refined style with a smooth skull, a sober and little-expressive face, and a strong emphasis on the sex and navel, elements symbolising virility and fertility. The right arm, partially broken, suggests that it once carried a ritual object. The base is damaged but stable, with splayed feet carved in an angular style specific to Bambara altar figures. The elongated torso and the frontal posture reinforce the hieratic aspect of the piece. It was probably used in a cult context linked to protection, strength or the transmission of life.

Technical details

Type of piece

Statue

Category

Statues

Ethnic group

Bambara

Country

Mali

Materials

wood

Dimensions

H 90 × W 14 × D 16 cm

Weight

5,1 kg

Estimated dating

second half 20th c.

Laboratory test

Not tested

Reference

201