UNIQUE ITEM - Genuine Antique African granary door,  Bamana tribe Mali, 19th century

Up for sale is something special. An antique Bamana granary door from Mali
Not a tourist carving like 95% of African pieces but a genuine piece. A one of a kind unique conversation piece with it's original metal fittings. Priced like an entry level art piece but far more special.

r20000 neg
Collection in fourways

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Description:

A large door of a Bambara millet granary from a village in the savanna of Mali. The door consists of two thick planks of hard, brown wood.

A typical Bambara crossbar lock is located in the upper third of the door, attached above and below with two forged iron hooks. The body of the lock is a highly abstract human figure, perhaps representing a protective ancestor. The characteristic crossbar and the body of the lock are decorated with delicate geometric lines in relief. An unusually complete object with impressive, old and, in parts, encrusted and shiny usage patina. Loose fittings consistent with it's age and life but complete. First half of the 20th century. (ME)



Example of price of just the lock statue, not a complete door. See links.

$895.00
The form and motifs depicted in Bambara door locks often have symbolic messages despite their formal simplicity. These messages, both abstract and representational can be deeply personal. The stylized figure often represents an ancestor whose presence is required to ensure protection from bad spirits or sorcery.
Today such locks have essentially disappeared in Bamana country, replaced by padlocks, and are no longer appreciated.
Created to be functional with spiritual references, these door locks have a strong sculptural appeal for western art audiences
Source: https://www.africaandbeyond.com/door-lock-bambara-people-mali-q--details.html

Some more reading:



This is a complete authentic door with all original patina, age and metal in place. On some websites these authentic doors sell for over 12000$ overseas.

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