Artwork Page for Female Figure (nyeleni or jo nyeleni)

Details / Information for Female Figure (nyeleni or jo nyeleni)

Female Figure (nyeleni or jo nyeleni)

before 1932

Africa, West Africa, Mali, Bamana-style blacksmith-carver

Medium
wood
Measurements
Overall: 49.9 cm (19 5/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Munro 1971.161
Copyright
Copyright
This artwork is known to be under copyright.
Location
Not on view
Print
?

Did You Know?

This sculpture originally had clothing (around the waist), beads, and metal ornaments, just like a Bamana woman would wear on a special occasion.

Description

Called nyeleni, the figure represented an idealized youthful female beauty. The nudity of the sculpture does not represent how a Bamana woman would dress, nor is it a study of an actual woman. Male initiates in the Jo society once used these figures in entertaining ceremonial performances, where they represented the ideal wife. Their performance was also one of masculinity and showcasing their eligibility.

Female Figure (nyeleni or jo nyeleni)

before 1932

Africa, West Africa, Mali, Bamana-style blacksmith-carver

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