CIK 0608-1

Chi Wara, Bambara, Mali

H: 35 cm (13,8″)

Bamana Chi Wara (Ci Wara, Tyi Wara) from Mali, represent and honor the mythological half man / half antelope hero who taught man how to cultivate the soil. They were danced in pairs and celebrate the union of male (sun), female (earth) and fibre costume (rain), signifying the cooperation needed for a successful harvest and community survival. They are worn as headdresses and danced as pairs. Spelled alternately, etc. they illustrate the diversity of ways to represent an unwritten pronunciation. There are three types of Chi Wara headdresses; the familiar vertical style of the eastern Bamana, the more realistic horizontal style of the northern Bamana. This Chi Wara is a more abstract form from the Southern Bamana.

Despite the ‘antique’ appearance, this abstract Bamana Chi Wara is probably made to be sold.

Click here for more information about the Bambara people

Request price for Chi Wara