Bamana Maternity Figure African STAND UNUSUAL Start Price USD 2,500.00 Current Price USD 2,500.00 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Thursday, November 06, 2008 End Time Saturday, December 06, 2008 Location Denver, CO See more about 'Bamana Maternity Figure African STAND UNUSUAL' Description Title: Bamana Maternity Figure, Mali African, Unusual positionType of Object: Carving, StatueEthnic Group: BamanaCountry of Origin: MaliMaterials: WoodApproximate Age: Mid 20th centuryDimensions: Height is 31 inchesOverall Condition: GoodDamage, Repair:There is an old crack with high quality repair of one arm, hole Additional Information: This figure of a Mother and child is an extraordinary piece. It depicts a seated mother holding a child on her belly. What is extraordinary about this piece is the structure of the sculpture. The figure is presented in a rigid position, as if reclining on a lazy chair. The rhythm of the sculpture elevates this aesthetic quality of this unique sculpture. The serene expression of the mother is sublime. and the patina on the surface enhance the extraordinary character of this carving. The statue presents classic Bamana facial features with typical x semi-opened eyes, a long straight nose and the ears. The jutting breasts show that the figure portrays a mature woman. This great carved figure from the greater Mali region reflects the skill of an artist in capturing an essential image of womanhood.Such figures are known as Jomooni or Gwandusu among the Bamana They represent not only a mother with her child but the ideal female, the importance of fertility and reminds the difficulty of birth and regeneration and the importance of both mother and father as guarantors of the lineage continuity. Jomooni figures are important visual components of the Jo initiation society for young girls and boys. Located primarily among the southern Bamana, Jo takes place over a span of years in which the initiates undergo training and instructions which includes sculptures as masiriw - the visual ornaments of Jow. As part of annual celebrations that take place when the first rains of the year occur figures such as this would be taken from their shrine house to the center of the village where they would be ritually cleansed and decorated with beads. These events were directed to assure the fertility of women and crops and to acknowledge the ancestors. "For more information, and wonderful examples, see BAMANA -THE ART OF EXISTENCE IN MALI by Colleyn.I have examined this piece and agree with the descriptionNiangi Batulukisi, Ph.D.  **005875** All content, including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc., 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Please visit our About Us page. SquareTrade © AP6.0 PesaMember Place a Bid!