Bamana Fetish Figural Post Mali 38 Inch

Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.

Damage/Repair: Cracks and chips and general wear

This stunning African figural post created by the Bamana people, a well known ethnic group from Mali in West Africa. The post is made from rich dark wood and has been meticulously crafted by skilled artisians using traditional techniques. 

Fetish figure with encrustation.  A fine figural post with much handling and good age! 

The genesis of the Bamana as a definable culture can be traced back to the 17th century, though archaeological evidence hints that they could be much older. They are of Mandinke origin and today are the largest culture in Mali. The zenith of Bamana culture occurred during the late 18th century during the reign of N'golo Diara, who conquered the Peul tribe and occupied the important cities of Timbuktu and Djenne. They remained powerful until conquered by the French in 1892. In recent decades, like cultures throughout Africa, they have been affected by Islamic recruiters from the east. Though they still consider themselves animists, many Bamana now practice a hybrid combination of both "religions." This has allowed these competing cultures to coexist peacefully. 

Provenance:  From the collection of Howard Gelb, St. Paul, MN collector of African Art, who was also a businessman, lawyer, and philanthropist. Mr. Gelb died in 2015, at the age of 96.