Antique African Chiwara "Mask" Figure.

This item comes to us from Mali, Africa. It was part of a centuries old tradition used in tribal dance. The morphic animal resembles an antelope, and it represents the spirit of the god Chiwara. Young males and females of the Bamana people would carry this type of figure to celebrate prosperity and produce strong able farmers. Chiwara "masks," as they are referred to, make stunning focal points, adding interest to a mantlepiece, a wall niche, a game room, a gentleman's study, etc. The body is carved of wood, and it is decorated in cloth tassles and copper applique. Approximate Dimensions: 7"H X 2'D X 5"W (Base)