Tywara female - Bambara - Mali

Elegant and ancient Bambara tywara (figure) from the Ségou region in Mali. It depicts a Hippotragus antelope with its young on its back. This type of crest was worn during rites associated with Bambara agricultural festivals. Here we find a refined stylization with a long rounded neck, long horns curved backward, elongated triangular faces. The nose is pierced. Rectilinear, checkered decorations on the heads and body; circular decorations on the neck. The support is fitted with two holes worn by the attachments to the basket carried on the head. The wood is hard, the patina is dark. Overall good condition despite its age. Only the tip of the right ear has been repaired. Personal collection.