Description: Here is a finely carved "antelope" wood Chi Wara or headdress, from the Bamana, Mali, West Africa. Chi War headdresses are some of the most widely known and appreciated forms in African art. According to legend, the ancestors of the Bamana learned to cultivate soil from a half man and half antelope creature called a Chi Wara. In honor of Chi Wara, the Bamana carve elaborate headdresses to be used in dance ceremonies. Dance ceremonies utilizing Chi Ward were once secret male ceremonies designed to instill in young boys the importance of diligent farming techniques. The dance masquerade in which Chi Ward headdresses appear is performed by champion farmers who are selected as “maskers." The headdresses are attached to woven raffia caps and their bodies are covered in raffia costumes. The maskers make leaping movements like antelopes and hoeing movements to signify working in the fields. As the farmers dance, females imitate their movements and sing praise songs. All Chi War activities are governed and sponsored by the Tye Ward Society. The word “ye" means work, and "wara," animal. The purpose of the society or "association" is to solicit the blessings of Chi Wara, teach essential farming skills and promote festivals and contests. The Chi Ward headdresses can be categorized into three distinct styles. The "vertical" style is distinguished by openwork carving representing the mane and neck of the antelope. The second style is elongated and called "horizontal." The final style is described as "abstract". This superb and highly characteristic "vertical" style example measures 11 inches in width by 36 inches in height. It is in very good condition, including rubbing, minor scratches and small cracks. It dates probably to the mid-20th century. The piece could benefit with a proper stand, as it needs to lean against thing in order for it to stay upright. Allison G
Price: 465 USD
Location: Pikesville, Maryland
End Time: 2024-12-13T00:10:54.000Z
Shipping Cost: N/A USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
Restocking Fee: No
Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 30 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Color: Brown
Original/Reproduction: Original
Material: Wood
Tribe: Bamana
