Gwandousou Maternity - Bambara - Mali

Statue - Bambara - Wood - Mali - 71 cm.

Very old Bambara maternity statue from the Segou region in Mali.
This Gwandousou statue is associated with fertility and fecundity.
Figure with prominent breasts. She is seated on a bench.
Her distinctive Bambara hairstyle with side braids, one at the back, and a pointed headdress.
She carries her child on her belly, holding it with both hands.
She wears numerous decorations on the arms, neck, and waist.
The wood has a very high density, seeming fossilized in places; the glossy black patina is magnificent.
The statue is heavy (over 5 kg) and has a few old fasteners.
Nevertheless, it is in very good condition.
Private collection.