Mask | Chi Wara

Ci-wara mask of the Segou Minianka type from the eastern Bamana region with vertical horns. Depicted is an antelope cow (oryx beisa) carrying a male fawn on its back, identified as a horse antelope (hippotragus equinus) by its curved horns and irregular mane. Ci-wara masks were carved in a tremendous variety of forms. Depending on the region and era, they are either naturalistic or highly abstract. The main criterion for the representation is that the horns of the antelope should remain recognisable. The elegant ci-wara masks of high quality are among the best-known sculptures in African art.