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HOME :
African & Tribal Art :
African Sculptures : Tuareg Wooden Ehel Cushion Support
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Tuareg Wooden Ehel Cushion Support - PF.4872
Origin: Niger/Nigeria/Burkina Faso/Mali
Circa: 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
54" (137.2cm) high
x 6.5" (16.5cm) wide
Collection: African
Medium: Wood
$3,600.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
Appearing like a king's staff, the ehel is an
important part of the furnishings of a well-
appointed Tuareg household. They are carved by
blacksmiths of the Enaden guild, who produce
luxury items for the elite classes of warriors and
religious teachers. This elegant ehel combines
triangular shapes and crescent curves,
segmented with horizontal 'cut-out' sections.
Slashes or striations running at different angles
add texture, and also a floral sense. In fact, the
overall abstract pattern has an unexpectedly
naturalistic feeling, as if it has just sprung from
the earth, from the hot dry land of Niger for the
delight of those who have the aesthetic
refinement to appreciate such beauty. By leaning
on his ehel a person comes into 'contact' with
the artist and the great tradition of the guild.
Thus art, as a functional object, becomes a
symbol of a people's cultural and intellectual
coherence. Such harmony is beautifully reflected
in this ehel; created with pride, love of perfection
and considerable talent.
- (PF.4872)
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