Mémoire d’Afrique — Ref. 211

Horse-head Koré Duga cane — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 211

Photo 1 — Horse-head Koré Duga cane — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 211
Photo 2 — Horse-head Koré Duga cane — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 211
Photo 3 — Horse-head Koré Duga cane — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 211
Photo 4 — Horse-head Koré Duga cane — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 211
Photo 5 — Horse-head Koré Duga cane — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 211
Photo 6 — Horse-head Koré Duga cane — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 211
Photo 7 — Horse-head Koré Duga cane — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 211
Photo 8 — Horse-head Koré Duga cane — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 211
Photo 9 — Horse-head Koré Duga cane — Bambara, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 211
View my selection

Description

This carved wooden ceremonial cane comes from the Bamana, or Bambara, of Mali and is associated with the Koré initiatory society, the final stage of initiation rites. Used by initiates of the Koré Duga, the “vulture of the Koré”, it embodies wisdom and mastery of esoteric knowledge.
The handle, carved in the shape of a horse’s head, is topped by two slender ears and covered with finely nailed metal plates. A cord connects the mouth, evoking a bridle bit. Animal fibres simulate a mane, and the lower end is sheathed in leather, reinforcing its ritual use.
The deep patina and marked wear testify to old and intensive use, reinforcing the authenticity of the piece.

Technical details

Type of piece
Mobilier
Category
Traditional furniture
Ethnic group
Bambara
Country
Mali
Materials
wood, fibre végétale, crin, iron
Dimensions
H 93 × W 10 × D 31 cm
Weight
2,6 kg
Estimated dating
second half 20th c.
Laboratory test
Not tested
Reference
211