Bamana Sistrum with Woman's Head - Mali

This sistrum, or ceremonial rattle, is used by shaking the group of stacked, circular gourd disks that run along the length of its downward-curving rod. A stylized woman’s head with multi-pointed coiffure tops the painted handle, its face merging with the shaker rod. For the Bamana, sistrums were emblems of the acquisition of knowledge and accompanied the chants and processions of boys being initiated into the n'tomo youth society.

There is a slight loss at the tip of one braid on the head-shaped finial.



Early 20th century
Wood, gourd, plant fiber, pigments
H: 21 in W: 8 in
Provenance:

Private collection, USA

Item Number:
671
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