Showrooms

Guinean Baga Serpent Protective Headdress

Offered by: PAGODA RED

Description
With sinuous curves and reptilian form, this large wooden carving represents the Baga Snake, or Bansonyi, a protective spirit that presides over male initiation rites of the Baga people of Guinea, West Africa. Worn as a headdress, this sculptural figure is held on the shoulders of a dancer whose body is concealed beneath a costume of raffia, bells, and colorful feathers. Often donned by a pair of male and female performers, the figures celebrate the transition of boys into men and provide spiritual protection for all members of the community. We love the way the artist invoked the snake’s undulating movements by giving the sculpture a slight, off-kilter sway. // Depth: 6.5"

More Information

Period:	1950-1979
Condition:	Good.
Creation Date:	c. 1950
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional
Dealer Reference #:	CAA1226
Incollect Reference #:	802666

Dimensions

W.	7.5 in;	H.	44.75 in;
W.	19.05 cm;	H.	113.67 cm;

Message from Seller:

PAGODA RED is a Chicago-based gallery celebrating extraordinary objects, handmade artistry, and the rich stories they carry from around the world. For inquiries or appointments, please call 773.235.1188 or email us at info@pagodared.com.

More Listings from PAGODA RED View all 1030 listings

No Listings to show.