Sacred maternity statue — Bambara, Guinea — African tribal art — Ref. 208

Description

This Bambara statue from Mali represents a seated female figure holding a child in her arms, illustrating an essential theme in Bambara art: fertility and the transmission of life. Motherhood is a sacred concept in Bambara culture, associated with fertility rituals and initiatory ceremonies intended to ensure the prosperity of the lineage.
The elaborate hairstyle with long lateral braids and the stylised face recall the aesthetic canons specific to Bambara sculptures. The child, placed on a circular base, may symbolise a link with protective spirits or an initiation within secret societies. These statues were often placed on ritual altars dedicated to fertility divinities or handled during agricultural and family ceremonies.
Made of old wood, this piece has a natural patina and marked signs of wear, particularly on the legs and base, indicating long exposure to the elements or prolonged ritual use. No visible restoration, making it an authentic and preserved collector’s object.

Technical details

Type of piece

Statue

Category

Statues

Ethnic group

Bambara

Country

Guinée

Materials

wood

Dimensions

H 59 × W 13 × D 13 cm

Weight

2,6 kg

Estimated dating

second half 20th c.

Laboratory test

Not tested

Reference

208