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Boli Figure

African Art

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Boli Figure

Artwork Details

Artist/Maker

Bamana Artist, Mali

Date

twentieth century

Medium

Mixed media

Accession #

2005.316

Dimensions

Please contact the Museum for more information.

Location

Currently Not on View

Description

Boli sculptures are sacred objects that take many organic forms and are used as altars by the Komo Society, a group of high-ranking male priests, elders, and blacksmiths. Bolis are assembled and molded from materials such as clay, wood, bark, millet, and honey. The sculptures are often enlarged and reworked with residue from sacrifices and rituals.

Credit

Anonymous gift

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