Animal Headdress
Item
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Accession Number
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2024.22.
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Title
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Animal Headdress
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Ethnic Group
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Bambara
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Subject
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Mask|Ceremonial|West Africa
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Country
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Mali
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Date
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Early 20th Century
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Medium
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Patinated wood, cowrie shells, fabric, metal, bells
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Format
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H x W x D: 37 in x 2 3/4 in x 15 1/2 in (93.98 cm x 6.985 cm x 39.37 cm)
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Description
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The large headdress resembles the form of an antelope, pangolin, and aardvark referring to the mythic Ci-Wara figure. In the Bambara culture, Ci-Wara was believed to have introduced humans to various aspects of nature and agricultural practices. During ceremonies celebrating the skills of successful farmers, two headdresses, one male and one female, are worn. Both male and female headdresses together signify the importance of unity for maintaining a strong community. The male Ci-Wara headdress has a large, narrow and long face decorated with metal plates and patterning. Cowrie shells have been added to the Fabric and small metal bells are attached towards the base of the tall horns, Rounded forms mimic the curve of the neck, radiating outwards. The body is low, with four short legs. The headdress emphasizes positive and negative space through its silhouette forms.
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Type
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Ci-Wara Headdress
