Artwork Page for Headdress (chi wara)

Details / Information for Headdress (chi wara)

Headdress (chi wara)

early 1900s

Overall: 45.2 x 4.8 x 12.4 cm (17 13/16 x 1 7/8 x 4 7/8 in.)
Location: not on view
Public Domain
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Did You Know?

Chi wara headdresses look different depending on the region in which they were made.

Description

Chi wara—a mythical “farming beast”—was said to teach farming to the Bamana people. Carved patterns cover this female chi wara’s body, highlighting its muscles and emphasizing that it is no earthly animal, but rather an agricultural spirit that combines human, antelope, and anteater elements. This example emphasizes vertical space, with a kneeling human figure on the back. The figure is adorned with imported beads as well as small shells. Accompanied by women’s songs, male performers danced paired male-and-female chi wara headdresses affixed to basketry caps at agricultural competitions and weddings.

Headdress (chi wara)

early 1900s

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