Bamana / Bambara boli αντικείμενο δύναμης – Μάλι – μικτή τεχνική (χωρίς τιμή ασφαλείας)

Bamana / Bambara boli power object – Mali – mixed media

Details

Origin: Mali
People: Bamana / Bambara
Type: Boli power object
Material(s): Mixed media, earth / clay and organic ritual accretions over an internal structure
Dimensions: approx. 32 x 11 x 23 cm
Period: mid-20th century
Provenance: Ex private French collection

Description

A strong Bamana / Bambara boli power object from Mali, in a highly expressive zoomorphic form.

Among the Bamana, boliw were powerful ritual objects associated with initiation societies, protection and the accumulation of spiritual force. Built from complex combinations of materials and repeatedly charged through libations and sacrificial substances, they were not conceived as simple sculptures, but as repositories of power.

This example is particularly appealing for the dynamism of its form. The body is compact and rounded, set on four relatively tall legs, with a long forward-projecting muzzle that gives the object a strong sense of movement and tension. The silhouette is both archaic and animated, with a striking presence from every angle.

The surface is one of the most important qualities of the piece. It is heavily encrusted, dry and cracked, with layers of earth, organic matter and ritual accretions. These accumulated materials create a dense, textured skin, with darker areas and traces of libations, giving the object a powerful ethnographic character.

Despite the density of the surface, the zoomorphic form remains clearly readable. The raised body, elongated head and slender legs give this boli an especially expressive and sculptural quality.

A very attractive Bamana / Bambara boli, appreciated for its dynamic animal form, elegant elongated muzzle, encrusted ritual surface and strong presence.

Condition

Good overall condition for an object of this type, with cracks, abrasions, losses, surface irregularities and encrustations consistent with age, ritual use and material composition.
The earth surface is cracked throughout.
The front left leg moves very slightly when pushed, but the object remains stable overall.
Traces of libations and ritual accretions.
The object will be very carefully protected for shipping.
Please refer to the photographs.

Included

The object only.
No stand included.

Offered here without reserve price.