Bamana/Bambara dancers originally used these Chiwara headpieces during ceremonies which occurred during pre-planting and harvesting months to portray humanized antelopes. This contemporary one depicts a male antelope with two curved horns along with an aardvark. Their bodies are covered with incised decoration, have an amazing dark brown patina, and rest on a new acrylic base. This piece is a great representation of the more abstract style from the Southern Banama.

African sculpture such as this will stand out while complementing any decor taste from Mid-Century, Warm Minimalism, Organic-Inspired, California Casual, Japandi... to Wabi Sabi or Coastal Modern Design.

Place of Origin: Mali

Date of Manufacture: mid to late-20th Century

Condition: Excellent

Wear: Consistent with age and use. Please refer to pictures.

Dimensions:

Figure: 26 in. H X 2.5 in. W X 9.5 in. D

Base: 8.5 in. L X 4.5 in. W X 1.5 in. H

Total: 27.5 in. H

Provenance:

Acquired from 2022 estate sale in Los Angeles through Amphora Art & Antiques in Beverly Hills, CA. New acrylic base added in 2025.

Reference:

The Met, Penn Museum, Cincinnati Art Museum, Birmingham Museum of Art, Spurlock Museum of World Cultures at the University of Illinois, University of Missouri Museum of Art & Archaeology, Maxwell Museum of Anthropology at the University of New Mexico


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Condition: Excellent

Wear: Consistent with age and use. Please refer to pictures.

Origin:
Mali

Materials & Techniques:
Wood

Details:
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Art Subjects: Animals, Figure
Country of Origin: Mali

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Condition: Excellent

Wear: Consistent with age and use. Please refer to pictures.