Click 2x
to zoom
to zoom
Product description
The Ciwara, also spelled Tyi Wara or Chi Wara, is an emblematic figure of the Bambara (or Bamana) culture of Mali. These sculptures are often used in agricultural ceremonies to encourage community work and celebrate the spirits of fertility and the harvest. The term "Ciwara" is translated as "working animal" and Ciwara figures are often stylized representations of antelope, symbolizing grace and endurance. The sculptures are carved from wood; cowrie shell, metal and natural fiber elements were added for specific details. These figures are large and slender (1.80m for the female and 2m for the male), intended to be carried on the head during ritual dances. The style is strongly geometric and abstract, with elongated shapes and cut-out patterns that create a feeling of movement and lightness. The sculptures depict antelopes with long, curved horns. The heads are stylized with sharp lines and angular shapes, symbolizing strength and determination. The bodies are made up of complex geometric shapes, with cutouts that add depth and dynamism to the sculpture. These cutouts often symbolize cultivated fields and agricultural motifs. Each figure is mounted on a solid base, allowing them to be kept in an upright position when not used in dances. Ciwara figures are symbols of fertility and hard work in the fields. They embody the qualities necessary for successful agriculture, such as endurance, grace and collective effort. In addition to their role in agricultural ceremonies, these sculptures are also seen as protectors of fields and crops, invoking benevolent spirits to ensure abundance and protect against evil influences. During ritual dances, Ciwara figures are carried by dancers who perform symbolic movements, imitating the animal and telling stories of creation and agriculture. The finesse and complexity of the geometric patterns demonstrate great mastery of wood sculpture. Bambara artists are known for their skill in transforming wood into dynamic and expressive shapes. Additional details, such as metal, natural fiber elements, show attention to detail and add an extra dimension to the work, making each piece unique. This pair of Ciwara sculptures is a remarkable example of Bambara art and culture. Their imposing 2 meter size, elegant geometric style and deep symbolic meaning make them extremely valuable and respected pieces of African art. Used both for agricultural ceremonies and as spiritual protectors, these figures represent the fusion of art and function in traditional African culture. Dimensions: Height 2m and 1.80mMaterial: woodEthnicity: Bambara, MaliProduct specifications
Create an account or log in to discover your prices and all the specifications for this product
By logging in, you will be able to view full details of this product.
Very large couple statues CIWARA, Mali
In stock
-
Ships in: 5-10 business days
Product description
The Ciwara, also spelled Tyi Wara or Chi Wara, is an emblematic figure of the Bambara (or Bamana) culture of Mali. These sculptures are often used in agricultural ceremonies to encourage community work and celebrate the spirits of fertility and the harvest. The term "Ciwara" is translated as "working animal" and Ciwara figures are often stylized representations of antelope, symbolizing grace and endurance. The sculptures are carved from wood; cowrie shell, metal and natural fiber elements were added for specific details. These figures are large and slender (1.80m for the female and 2m for the male), intended to be carried on the head during ritual dances. The style is strongly geometric and abstract, with elongated shapes and cut-out patterns that create a feeling of movement and lightness. The sculptures depict antelopes with long, curved horns. The heads are stylized with sharp lines and angular shapes, symbolizing strength and determination. The bodies are made up of complex geometric shapes, with cutouts that add depth and dynamism to the sculpture. These cutouts often symbolize cultivated fields and agricultural motifs. Each figure is mounted on a solid base, allowing them to be kept in an upright position when not used in dances. Ciwara figures are symbols of fertility and hard work in the fields. They embody the qualities necessary for successful agriculture, such as endurance, grace and collective effort. In addition to their role in agricultural ceremonies, these sculptures are also seen as protectors of fields and crops, invoking benevolent spirits to ensure abundance and protect against evil influences. During ritual dances, Ciwara figures are carried by dancers who perform symbolic movements, imitating the animal and telling stories of creation and agriculture. The finesse and complexity of the geometric patterns demonstrate great mastery of wood sculpture. Bambara artists are known for their skill in transforming wood into dynamic and expressive shapes. Additional details, such as metal, natural fiber elements, show attention to detail and add an extra dimension to the work, making each piece unique. This pair of Ciwara sculptures is a remarkable example of Bambara art and culture. Their imposing 2 meter size, elegant geometric style and deep symbolic meaning make them extremely valuable and respected pieces of African art. Used both for agricultural ceremonies and as spiritual protectors, these figures represent the fusion of art and function in traditional African culture. Dimensions: Height 2m and 1.80mMaterial: woodEthnicity: Bambara, MaliProduct specifications
Create an account or log in to discover your prices and all the specifications for this product
By logging in, you will be able to view full details of this product.
QUINTESSENCE AFRICAINE
Quintessence Africaine célèbre l'âme de l'art africain à travers des pièces d'exception. Mobilier, sculptures et objets d'art racontent des histoires intemporelles, mêlant héritage et élégance. Sublimez vos espaces avec l'authenticité d'un art unique
Add
Add
Buy online now
QUINTESSENCE AFRICAINE
Very large couple statues CIWARA, Mali
Advised sale price:
€6,500.00
Add
Add
Buy online now
QUINTESSENCE AFRICAINE
Large wooden Dogon Pharmacopoeia wardrobe, Mali
Advised sale price:
€1,190.00
Add
Add
Buy online now
QUINTESSENCE AFRICAINE
Very large wooden Dogon primordial couple statue
Advised sale price:
€3,900.00
More Sculptures, statuettes and miniatures
Add
Add
ATELIER NATHALIE MELON
Mask-sculpture in wood and copper marquetry — Inner nest
Advised sale price:
€3,500.00
Add
Add
TODINI SCULTURE
Bust of Hippocrates
Your price:
upon demand
Add
Add
Buy online now
BAZAR BIZAR LIVING
The Sumba Stone Man - Natural - S
Advised sale price:
€14.95
Add
Add
Buy online now
QUINTESSENCE AFRICAINE
OKPA Bronze Benin Rooster Figure, Ife, Nigeria
Advised sale price:
€1,990.00
Add
Add
SKITSO
CAMILA - Papier-mâché Floor Lamp
Your price:
upon demand
Add
Add
NARCIS
Iris, sculpture, lamp
Your price:
upon demand
Add
Add
GARDECO OBJECTS
Verso l'alto
Your price:
upon demand
Add
Add
Buy online now
LAFI BALA - BRONZES D'AFRIQUE
Elegant bronzes
Advised sale price from:
€650.00
Multiple colours available
Add
Add
Buy online now
MOOGOO CREATIVE AFRICA
Bronze “Woman of the Sahel”
Advised sale price from:
€290.00
Add
Add
DESIGN PHILIPPINES OBJECTS
CHANALLI Wooden Statuette
Your price:
upon demand
Add
Add
LLADRÓ
Life is flower - Lladró Handmade porcelain Limited Edition
Your price:
upon demand
Add
Add
Buy online now
BAZAR BIZAR LIVING
The Sumba Stone #18
Advised sale price:
€14.95
Countries eligible for delivery
This product is available for purchase in the following countries:
This product is available for purchase in the following countries:
France, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Croatia, Denmark, Spain, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Czechia
Fermer