Guinean Baga Serpent Headdress

c. 1900
$4,280 USD
Make an Offer
Dimensions
W: 11.75" D: 13.75" H: 70.5"
Materials
Pigment
Wood
Steel
Purchase Quantity
Collection #
CAA1136
Estimated Shipping
$250

With sinuous curves and reptilian form, this large wooden carving represents the Baga Snake, or Bansonyi, a protective spirit that presides over male initiation rites of the Baga people of Guinea, West Africa. Worn as a headdress, this sculptural figure is held on the shoulders of a dancer whose body is concealed beneath a costume of raffia, bells, and colorful feathers. Often donned by a pair of male and female performers, the figures celebrate the transition of boys into men and provide spiritual protection for all members of the community. We love the way the artist invoked the snake’s undulating movements by giving the sculpture a slight, off-kilter sway.

Additional Dimensions:
Base: 6"W x 6"D x 0.25"H

Questions? Ask us

What They're Saying

Mick de Giulio | de Giulio kitchen design

“I love working with PAGODA RED. When I’m looking for something distinctive for one of my clients, I can be sure I’ll find it there. Betsy has an incredible eye for the beautiful and unique and she continues to offer one of the best collections of Chinese furniture and decorative art.”

Receive our weekly email on design &
creating memorable spaces