Description:

Western Africa, Mali, Bamana culture, ca. mid 20th century CE. A brightly colored wooden hand-carved puppet head and torso with natural black hair fibers beneath an embossed metal crown. The long pink face has angular ears, protruding eyes, and a narrow nose ending at a pointed chin. The exaggerated carving with contrasts of vibrant skin and black brows, eyes, and lips would have made the features stand out to an audience. Bamana people used puppets like this during the festival Sogo Bo, and this is a colorful example of the tradition. Size: 6.75" W x 33.75" H (17.1 cm x 85.7 cm); 34.25" H (87 cm) on included custom stand.

The Bamana peoples perform a puppet masquerade during the festival Sogo Bo in which the relations between men and women are explored. Most interestingly, issues that arise in polygamous households are central to these narratives. The conflicts between wives is a popular topic. Favorite characters are Barabara, the Favorite Wife and Galomuso, the Bad Wife.

Provenance: private Sante Fe, New Mexico USA collection

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#157579

  • Condition: Stable fissures to wood. Loss to bottom torso. Metal patch added to neck for support. Loss to natural hair fibers. Age commensurate surface wear and discoloration to pigments. Vibrant colors and detailed facial features.

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August 27, 2020 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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