Shrine Headpiece

Origin: Bwa Culture, Burkina Faso
Composition: terracotta, cowrie shells, mud, ritual accumulation

Statues of the type from which this fragment comes are kept hidden in secret, powerful Bwa shrines. From what little information exists, these shrines are believed to incorporate a large complex of seated figures all molded into a single sculpture, which cannot be moved without destroying it.

These human Bwa sculptures are placed within shrines that embody the protective spirits of the bush. The shrines are presided over by a diviner, who makes use of the supernatural power of these bush spirits for the benefits of his clan (Ref: Roy, "Land of the Flying Masks").

This piece was thermoluminescence tested by Laboratory Ralf Kotalla (Germany), and found to be authentic, having been fired (created) between 1743 and 1831 A.D. Exceedingly rare, it is possibly the oldest piece of its type that has been collected.

Please contact us if you have any questions about this piece at (415) 362-6601 or info@sujaro.com.