BAMBARA, Mali. - Lot 121

BAMBARA, Mali. Stylized antelope resting on a rectangular base, with elegantly curved horns and tail. The muzzle projects forward, while the tapered ears stand out at the back, accentuating an impression of vivacity and vigor. The top of the muzzle, as well as the body, are adorned with an engraved decoration of triangular, linear and sawtooth motifs, executed with mastery and regularity. Hardwood, orange cotton, wrought and cut iron, pearls, old reddish-brown patina. Width: 52.5 cm Provenance: former Helena and Ladislas Segy collection, New York, acquired in December 1968. The Tyiwara (or Chi wara) refers to the Bambara founding myth of a being half-man half-antelope who transmitted farming techniques to humans. Worn during agrarian ceremonies at the start of sowing and at harvest time, these antelope crests celebrated the work of farmers and the fertility of the land. Their style combines animal power and graphic rhythm: the elongation of the horns and the curvature of the tail suggest vital force and élan, while the engraved geometric decorations refer to the order of the field, the mastery of the agricultural gesture and the ideal of abundance.