A ”Nyeleni” figure – Bamana – Mali

The stylized wooden carving with geometric forms and features such as conical breasts, a flat torso, rounded buttocks, and long cylindrical limbs standing firmly on base from a later period with the arms by the side.

Dating: Between 1900 and 1940, possibly older

Material: wood

Height: 37 cm without base

Condition: good; original surface with authentic patina and clear signs of ritual use

Provenance: on request.

Within Bamana society, carved wooden figures like this served as ritual objects rather than decorative works. They acted as supports for the spiritual force believed to influence life called nyama. Such figures were used in restricted ritual or initiation contexts, where they helped maintain balance, discipline, and spiritual control.