Bambara Wooden Guandousou Sculpture of a Mother and Child, 19th Century CE - 20th Century CE
Wood
height 63.5 cm
height 25 in
height 25 in
PF.3731
Further images
This outstanding figure of a seated female figure breastfeeding her child is one of the most moving themes depicting the daily existence of the people of the Bambara tribe. Traditional...
This outstanding figure of a seated female figure breastfeeding her child is one of the most moving themes depicting the daily existence of the people of the Bambara tribe. Traditional of seated figures in Senufo carvings, is the footstool which seems to be a continuation of the long body, its front feet becoming one with the legs of the figure. The hairstyle of this mother, twisted in intricate individual braids is a signature of the Bambara carving style. Her elongated breasts are also a recurrent motif in the art of Bambara.
As we look at this caring mother created out of a rich and strong material, we come to realize how revered a mother was, to be immortalized in such a manner, an emotion that may have been lost to some of us throughout the many years gone by.
As we look at this caring mother created out of a rich and strong material, we come to realize how revered a mother was, to be immortalized in such a manner, an emotion that may have been lost to some of us throughout the many years gone by.