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African & Tribal Art :
Bambara Sculptures : Bambara Iron Sculpture of an Antelope and Baby
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Bambara Iron Sculpture of an Antelope and Baby - PF.4466
Origin: Central Mali
Circa: 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
12.5" (31.8cm) high
x 12.5" (31.8cm) wide
Collection: African
Medium: Iron
$3,000.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
The importance of certain animals in African
societies cannot be understated. Even if they are
not related to food, such as the domesticated
cow, or hunted for food and hide, they often play
an integral part in religion and a tribe's social
life. For the Bambara the antelope represents a
mythical character who taught them the art of
cultivation. It's visual representation occurs often
in various forms. For instance, after circumcision
young boys partake of a dance ceremony run by
the blacksmiths who wear large masks carved in
the shape of an antelope head. Art, religion and
animal life intermingle to form a complex fabric.
The Bambara are known for their fine sculptures
and here we have a delightful example. It shows
an antelope with a baby on her back. Though
contrary to this particular animal's way of
carrying her young, the artist's inventiveness has
given full expression to the tenderness animals
often feel for their offspring. The whole object is
beautifully balanced by the elongated body and
the very long horns of the mother. By raising her
front legs an impression is given of movement,
as if they are calmly walking along a grassy plain.
With extraordinary simplicity of detail, the
sculptor has breathed life into iron, depicting the
gentle antelope so important to his people.
- (PF.4466)
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