Ciwara headdress - Mali

African headdress – Wooden sculpture – Tyiwara style – Bambara people Mali

Impressive African carved wooden crest representing a stylization of the Tyi Wara antelope, a major emblem of the Bambara people of Mali. This type of crest was worn fixed on a helmet made of plant fibers during agricultural ceremonies celebrating the fertility of the fields and the transmission of agricultural knowledge.
The work is characterized by a combination of geometric and organic shapes, where the body of the animal is adorned with incised motifs along the back, a perforated crest reminiscent of plant growth, as well as abstract elements representing vital energy and fertility.
The dynamic and slender design is highlighted by a beautiful antique brown patina that testifies to its age and traditional ritual use.
This crest belongs to the great tradition of Bambara sculptures, of which the Tyiwara are among the most emblematic artistic expressions of West Africa.
From an old European private collection, this piece is a fine example of 20th-century Bambara ritual art.

Hardwood material with a brown patina.
Good overall condition with wear and fissures related to age and ritual use.


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