Tribal Art

Circular and flat, this bidjogo ornament is an adornment that was worn on the arm. It is coated with contrasting polychrome patterns, summarily applied.
Patina of use, matte, abrasions.
Height on base: 40 cm.
Their raids in large canoes along the African coasts forged the Bidjogos of the Bissagos Islands in Guinea Bissau a reputation as daring warriors. In order to exalt their qualities, the initiation ceremonies staged animal masks reflecting power, courage and agility, their dances matching the nature of the animal represented.
This population cultivates rice in the swampy regions, and also makes a living from fishing. Other zoomorphic masks are produced, some related to aquatic fauna, as well as triangular-faced statues embodying deities, named iran, which have an apotropaic function and are placed under cover in shrines.
Sources: "Animal masks of black Africa" ​​ed. Sepia (p.105); "African Masks" ed. Adam Biro.