These realistic almost abstract designed masks are summarized under the term tyiwara, which in the Bambara language means tyi = animal, wara = work. They refer to the beginnings of agriculture, when according to legend the antelope gave man the first corn as a gift and taught him how to cultivate it. Hence tyiwaras are danced at agricultural festivities. Thereby the dancer’s body is covered with a gown, which is to be understood as part of the mask. The body, which is bent forward, and two supporting sticks in the dancer’s hands give a perfect imitation of a four- footed animal. The masks are always danced in pairs , which allegorically stands for the power of the combined workforce of man and woman.
This male example (recognizable e.g. at the phallus at the bottom of the rolling back mane) is from the collection of Boris Kegel- Konietzko and is therefore of highest ethnological value. With its winding individual element, it does the complex spiritual background more than justice. Carved out of one piece, covered over and over with engravings – extremely decorative! The dark wood possesses a beautiful patina.
A rare piece for enthusiasts and serious collectors. |
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