Chi Wara Antelope Headcrest, Bamana African Start Price USD 450.00 Current Price USD 450.00 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Friday, July 18, 2008 End Time Friday, July 25, 2008 Location Denver, CO See more about 'Chi Wara Antelope Headcrest, Bamana African' Description Chi- Wara Antelope Headcrest, Bamana, Mali, African Type of Object: Mask, carving Ethnic Group: BamanaCountry of Origin: Mali Materials: Wood, pigment, hide, leatherApproximate Age: mid 20th century Dimensions: 39 inches tallOverall Condition: GoodDamage, Repair: chips in nose, spares in placesAdditional Information: This interesting Chi-Wara crest mask depicts a composite animal (antelope-pangolin) on a rectangular base topped with a stylized antelope with two large horns and pointed ears. The tips of horns are embellished with leather and hide. The Bamana (also called Bambara) are among the largest ethnic groups in the Western Sudan style region. Because traditional life revolves around agriculture, issues concerning the cycles of nature and the productivity of farmers inform Bamana society and art. Knowledge of agriculture practices is transmitted from generation to generation through the Ci-wara (or Chiwara, Tyi Wara) society. The purpose of the Chi-wara society is to pay homage to successful farmers. Their rituals recall the legend of the mythic animal that could be (according to different regions) a roan antelope (Hippotragus Leucophaeus) or anteater, a pangolin (Manis temmincki) and a python or a mythic half man, half-animal creature called Ci-wara, who introduced agriculture to men. The Bamana people honor successful farmers through performances involving the appearances of the antelope masks like this carved wood crest mask. Ci-wara crest masks are worn at agricultural contests, entertainment and at the annual celebration. The masquerade ceremonies occur during planting and harvesting seasons in the fields and the village palace. The dance is performed by two men acting as a male / female pair.The surface of this headcrest shows some old bug damage, chips, and minor cracks. Otherwise, the overall condition of this piece is good. The age of the object can be seen in the wear of the surface through long use. This is a well-used example of the Bamana art and would add a unique object to any serious collection. See Brett-Smith's THE MAKING OF BAMANA SCULPTURE-CREATIVITY AND GENDER, and superb examples in BAMANA-THE ART OF EXISTENCE IN MALI, edited by Colleyn.I have examined this piece and agree with the descriptionNiangi Batulukisi, Ph.D. **039678** All content, including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc., 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Please visit our About Us page. SquareTrade © AP6.0 PesaMember Place a Bid!