Mother and Child
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.In Bamana society, individuals can acquire mystical knowledge through initiation into a number of distinct associations. Induction into the Jo association followed a six-year course of study by all young men and some women. Jo’s leadership sponsored the creation of sculptures by Bamana blacksmiths that represented cultural ideals and values. The regal protagonists are defined by a crisp precision and idealized naturalism that exemplifies jayan, or aesthetic of clarity. The visual impact of the larger-than-life allegorical figures attracted the attention, focused the eye, and directed the thoughts of viewers who assembled to reflect collectively upon shared social ideals. A personification of motherhood, referred to as Gwandansu, was the centerpiece of such annually displayed sculptural ensembles, or tableaux vivants.
Artwork Details
- Title: Mother and Child
- Date: 18th century
- Geography: Mali
- Culture: Bamana peoples
- Medium: Wood
- Dimensions: H. (approx.) 43 1/2 × W. 14 × D.14 in. (110.5 × 35.6 × 35.6 cm)
- Classification: Wood-Sculpture
- Credit Line: Private collection
- Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing