A terracotta sculpture in the style of Bankoni, incl. stand.

"Traces of a fourteenth- and fifteenth-century tradition of figurative representations in cast metal and fired clay have been found at a number of sites in the Bamana region near Bougouni and Diola. Bankoni elongated figures, may be an artistic precursor to more recent Bamana wood sculptures devoted to similar subjects."
Source: The MET

Specifically, the Bankoni style is a ceramic style that - along with the Djenne style - was the most important stylistic subdivision of the Mali Empire. The Djenne and Bankoni styles existed at the same time and the people of these two cultures lived around the cities of Djenne-Djenno and Bamako.
Djenne and Bankoni sculpture are of great importance in the development of West African art styles. We find seated, standing and kneeling human figures, as well as equestrian and zoomorphic/anthropomorphic sculptures. Djenne pieces tend to be naturalistic, while Bankoni sculptures tend to have elongated proportions. We know almost nothing about their culture, apart from their apparent sophistication. These cultures were obviously highly socially stratified. We find there signs of distinction and wealth such as scarification, jewellery, horses and prestige objects, and the sculptures themselves.

Lit.: Karl-Ferdinand Schaedler, Erde und Erz. 2500 Jahre Afrikanische Kunst aus Terrakotta und Metall, 1979, p. 62-69.

Bankoni is a region in Mali that is known for its traditional craftsmanship, particularly its terracotta art. Terracotta, which is a type of clay, has been used in Mali for centuries to create various items, from everyday tools to decorative objects and sculptures. The region of Bankoni is one of the areas where this craft is practiced, and it is renowned for producing terracotta figurines, pottery, and other artifacts.

These terracotta items often have deep cultural significance, representing aspects of local life, traditions, and spirituality. They may feature human or animal figures, or symbolic motifs that hold meaning within the community. The creation of terracotta art in Mali is a practice that has been passed down through generations, often involving skilled artisans who maintain traditional techniques.

In addition to its artistic value, terracotta craftsmanship in Bankoni and other parts of Mali can be a source of income, as these items are sometimes sold to tourists, art dealers or collectors interested in African art.

sold

Height: 36 cm incl. stand
Weight: 1,3 kg