being, half human and half animal, who taught the first people the knowledge of agriculture. The Ci Wara headdresses were created to honor this founding spirit and were worn during agricultural ceremonies celebrating hard work, fertility, and the success of the harvest.

These sculptures combine the features of several animals symbolically

connected to agricultural prosperity. The long neck, elegant body, and large

horns recall the antelope, an animal admired for its agility and vigilance. Other

elements, particularly in the lower part of the sculpture, evoke the aardvark,

known for its ability to dig into the earth. Some interpretations also associate

certain features with the pangolin, an animal linked to fertility and transformation. Ci Wara headdresses were always worn in pairs, representing a male and a female figure. Together they symbolize the complementary forces on which agricultural life depends. The male figure is often associated with the power of the Sun, while the female represents the nourishing Earth. Their union

expresses the balance between cosmic forces and human labor.

Ci Wara performances took place both in the fields and in the village. Dancers

wearing these headdresses and fiber costumes accompanied farmers during

periods of agricultural work or celebrated successful harvests. Through dance

and music, they encouraged effort and honored the values of discipline,

cooperation, and productivity. The present example belongs to the style associated with the region of Ségou, one of the most important centers of Ci Wara production. This style is known for emphasizing the physical strength of the antelope, with powerful horns, a large head, and a strong elongated muzzle that gives the sculpture a dynamic presence.

The openwork structure, composed of curved and zigzag elements, evokes

the stylized mane of the animal and enhances the vertical movement of the

sculpture. Some scholars have also suggested that these forms may refer to

the radiating energy of the sun, reinforcing the symbolic meaning of the male

figure. The artist paid careful attention to the surface decoration. The horns are covered with fine spiral incisions, while the head displays delicate geometric

motifs. Small metal elements are used to represent the eyes, a detail found

on certain early examples.

The deep dark patina of the wood reflects long ritual use and repeated

performances, giving the sculpture a strong visual presence and emphasizing

its historical and ceremonial importance.