36" tall hand carved wood vertical style Chi Wara sculpture used by the Bambara ethnic group in Mali. This is a tribal ritual object representing and honoring the mythological half man / half antelope hero who taught man how to cultivate the soil. Chiwara masks are categorized in three ways: horizontal, vertical, or abstract. Chiwara can be either male or female. Female Chiwara masks, like the example you are considering in this listing, are denoted by the presence of a ...baby antelope and straight horns. Male Chiwara masks have bent horns. This particular Chi Wara sculpture also depicts a nude human female figure riding atop the mother. Embellishments include cut tin accents nailed over red fabric, beaded earrings, and animal hide covered horn tips (antelope?) with feathers. This sculpture is in very good condition with light wear consistent with age. Please use photos to help you make an informed purchase. Message me with any questions. Thanks