Baga a-Bamp Bird Headdress with Canoe

c. 1950
$2,380 USD
Make an Offer
Dimensions
W: 11.75" D: 18.0" H: 43.25"
Materials
Pigment
Wood
Purchase Quantity
Collection #
CAA1231
Estimated Shipping
$250

This graceful sculpture of a long-necked bird is a headdress known as "a-Bamp," worn during ritual masquerades of Baga adolescents in Guinea. With strong themes of defiance, these masquerades were not rituals of initiation, but rather served to unite Baga youths and counterpoint the authority of community elders. Likely carved to resemble stalking waterfowl such as the Goliath heron, the bird's posture, gaze, and painted plumage exude a sense of strength and dignity. Topping the bird's head is an ornament of three petite houses upon a boat, perhaps symbolizing the youth's ambitions for the future.

Questions? Ask us

What They're Saying

Andrea Goldman | Andrea Goldman Design

“Over the years, I’ve incorporated many pieces from PAGODA RED into my designs. Not only can they balance new furnishings (and often new construction) by feeling more established, but the pieces emanate a sense of rich history, often leaving you wondering where they were in a previous life. These beautiful pieces carefully hand-selected by the team at PAGODA RED, coupled with their unbelievable customer service, make them a must-have for any home.”

Receive our weekly email on design &
creating memorable spaces