Equestrian

19th–20th century

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

In Bamana society the equestrian makes specific reference to the sofaw (Fathers of the Horse), Segu’s elite corps of warriors who served as private guards for the king and his residence. Among the allegorical protagonists of Jo sculptural ensembles is Gwantigi, the personification of male authority and invincibility, who is portrayed in the guise of a male warrior either standing his ground or in the dynamic stance of an equestrian. In addition to his lance, he may be equipped with a type of pouch, used to carry supernatural weapons, slung across his chest.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

Title: Equestrian
Date: 19th–20th century
Geography: Mali, Oussabo
Culture: Bamana peoples
Medium: Wood, Iron staples
Dimensions: (Approx.) H. 51 × W. 16 × D. 28 in. (129.5 × 40.6 × 71.1 cm)
Classification: Wood-Sculpture
Credit Line: Private collection
Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing