Bamana People, Mali: Equestrian Figure, Early/Mid 20th Century. Carved wood, natural spun-fiber string.
In Bamana society, Horses were considered a luxury reserved for rich or powerful people. Equestrian figures depict the power surrounding the animal that has been associated with these qualities since it was introduced into West Africa more than a thousand years ago. Such figures would be kept as display pieces in a diviner's or priest's shrine, as symbols of luxury, good taste and prestige.
DIMENSIONS: 32"H x 14"W x 7.5"D
PROVENANCE: Private collection.
CONDITION: Good condition with tribal repairs on (both arms wrapped in cord) and desiccation cracks on the base.
In Bamana society, Horses were considered a luxury reserved for rich or powerful people. Equestrian figures depict the power surrounding the animal that has been associated with these qualities since it was introduced into West Africa more than a thousand years ago. Such figures would be kept as display pieces in a diviner's or priest's shrine, as symbols of luxury, good taste and prestige.
DIMENSIONS: 32"H x 14"W x 7.5"D
PROVENANCE: Private collection.
CONDITION: Good condition with tribal repairs on (both arms wrapped in cord) and desiccation cracks on the base.