Chi Wara: The Spirit of the Harvest. Celebrate the legendary “Agricultural Animal” of the Bamana people of Mali. This sculpture is a tribute to Chi Wara, the mythical antelope who, according to ancient lore, first taught humanity the essential skills of farming. The Legend of Abundance. Bamana mythology tells of a time when the fields became so bountiful that the people began to take their harvests for granted. Disappointed by their wastefulness, Chi Wara buried himself in the earth. To honor his memory and repent for their neglect, the Bamana elders commissioned elaborate headpieces to ensure his teachings—and the spirit of the harvest—would never be forgotten. Tradition in Motion – Traditionally, these crests are danced in the evenings at the start of the rainy season once the fields are seeded. Sowing & Harvesting: These pieces were historically worn by Bamana societies during sacred dances to ensure a fruitful season. Artistic Legacy: Over generations, these sculptures have evolved into some of the most intricate and recognizable examples of African headdress artistry. Decor Significance: A Chi Wara piece is more than a decoration; it is a symbol of growth, gratitude, and the enduring connection between humanity and the land. Its striking vertical silhouette makes it a perfect addition to a collection of contemporary African art.
Chi Wara Sculpture (Antique Silver Finish
R105,600.00
The mythology of the Bamana people of Mali tells the story of an antelope named Chi Wara who first taught farming skills to humanity. The headpieces were worn by a Bamana society to represent the mythical agricultural animal during dances held at sowing and harvesting times. At the start of the rainy season after the fields have been seeded, the Chi Wara crests are danced in the evenings. The Bamana farms became so bountiful that they had too much corn for their own use. They wasted it, thinking that it was easy to cultivate. Chi Wara grew disappointed and buried himself in the earth. This disturbed the elders of the Bamana, who regretted that they had lost him. They then ordered that a sculpture be made in memory of Chi Wara, to honour him for teaching them how to farm the land. Many elaborate headdresses have been created over the years in his honour.
1 in stock
| Weight | 110 kg |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 198 × 68 × 181 cm |
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