Malian wood mask, 'Bambara Antelope'
An antelope stands tall and proud to crown this handsome mask. Samuel and Francis Agbetey's artistic sensitivity permits them to capture the nature of the slim, quick animal. Among Mali's Bambara people, such masks are used by members of the tji (work) wara (animal) society that encourages the community's cooperation to ensure a successful crop. A mythical antelope is believed to have taught men how to farm. The Agbeteys adorn the hand-carved mask with brass repouss�, jute and tufts of goat fur.
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