|
Home | ||||||||
|
A superb Bamana "Jo-nyeleni" seated female figure browse these categories for related items... All Items: Vintage Arts: Regional Art: African: Sculpture: Pre 1930: item # 874390 Please refer to our stock # B46 when inquiring.
michael cichon tribal arts P.O. Box 5919 Bradenton, FL 34281 941.224.0440 Guest Book Price on request |
|
||||||||
| Smaller wooden female figures, known to the Bamana as "little pretty ones" (Jo-nyeleni), represent the materialization of the soul of the female entity at the start of the initiation ceremonies - a young woman in her most ideal physically attractive state. Such figures play a part in secretive "Jo" initiation ceremonies held every seven years, where they are carried from village to village by the "children (young initiates) of Jo," known as "Jodenw." These figures serve as a reminder of the worthiness of the "Jo" cult ceremonies. The example shown here is classic in its somewhat exaggerated, geometric form. The flattened surface forms have been repeatedly oiled and rubbed and maintain a shiny, honey-brown tone overall interspersed with encrustation, attesting to its age and use. Rich red abrus seeds have been embedded into her fancy coiffure. She sits calmly and nobly on her chair and measures 16.50"H x 4"W. In very fine condition. Early 20th century. Provenance available to the buyer. | |||||||||
|
