This carved wooden sculpture from the Bambara ethnic group of Mali is a motherhood figure, known as "Gwandusu," which depicts a mother sitting with her two children, one on each side of her body, symbolizing fertility, protection, and the continuity of life.
The female figure has a stylized and elongated style, with a cylindrical torso, a long neck, and prominent, raised breasts, distinctive characteristics of Bambara art. The head is prominent, with simplified but expressive facial features: almond-shaped eyes, a straight nose, and a small mouth that gives an air of serenity. She wears an elaborate headdress or hairstyle, which could symbolize status or fertility, with elements protruding to the sides, which could represent a traditional hairstyle or a ritual adornment. The arms are long and slender, extending downwards to hold the children; the hands are carved schematically, with barely suggested fingers.
The two smaller figures, representing the children (boy and girl), have a similar style to the mother, with large heads in proportion to the body, minimalist facial features, and cylindrical bodies. They are positioned symmetrically, reflecting the sense of balance and harmony typical of Bambara art.
As for the seat, it is formed by three children or subordinate figures, as a symbol of the community protected by the main maternal figure, arranged symmetrically: large heads in proportion to the body, with minimalist facial features, consistent with that of the main figure, very similar to the figures of the children held by the mother. This seat is not a separate element, but an integral part of the sculpture, carved from the same block of wood.
The base of the sculpture is wide and rounded, designed to allow the figure to stand stably.
BAMBARA GWANDUSU MATERNITY HOSPITAL
Mali, 20th century
Motherhood sculptures have a profound cultural and spiritual meaning for the Bambara.
The female figure with children symbolizes fertility, the continuity of life, and the central role of women as mothers and protectors in Bambara society. Fertility is a crucial theme in many African cultures, where the ability to have children ensures the survival of the community.
The symmetry of the two children on either side of the mother reflects the value that the Bambara place on balance and harmony. In their worldview, the balance between opposing forces (male/female, life/death) is essential for the well-being of the universe.
These figures are often associated with fertility cults and the rituals of the Bambara initiatory societies, such as the Jo or Gwan society, which focus on fertility and community protection. The figure may have been used to invoke blessings from ancestors or spirits to ensure healthy pregnancies and safe deliveries.
Conservation status: Very good for a piece of ritual use. Shows signs of natural wear and erosion. Small cracks visible, especially on the extremities and base, without significant breakage; earthy deposits.
Very good patina, with an irregular and worn texture that reveals the passage of time, accentuated by human handling and the application of ritual oils, as well as environmental factors. The very dark brown hues with lighter areas stand out, highlighting the details of the figure. All this is a good indicator of its authenticity and traditional use.
"Majestic, it radiates strength and protection"
BAMBARA GWANDUSU MATERNITY HOSPITAL
Mali, 20th century
