The Malinke are descendants of the mighty Mali
Empire that ruled much of Sub-Saharan West
Africa during the first half of the second
millennium. The empire reached its peak in the
thirteenth century under the rule of King
Sundiata, also known as the “Lion King,” who
unified the various tribes of the kingdom and
began to incorporate the surrounding people
into the empire. Today, the Malinke people are
spread out over several nations across West
Africa; however, they are united by their common
heritage and language. This gorgeous sculpture
of a young woman represents the sensitive
artistry of the Malinke people. Carved out of
ivory, a treasured resource that is bountiful in
this region, the softness of the portrait belies the
density of the material. Her elegantly braided
hair enhances her beauty and reveals her elite
status. Such hairstyles were only worn by
nobility, considering both the time and labor
involved in such a meticulous process. Most
likely, this bust is the idealized portrait of a
young princess. She exudes a royal air, calm and
determined, beautiful and elegant. This ivory
bust eternally memorializes the soft beauty of
this woman, a beauty that is all to fleeting in real
life.
- (PF.6177)
|
