Marionette Head of a Bird
Date20th century
MakerMali,
Bamana
Label TextThrough its snapping beak, this bird once had a lot to say. It honors the independence of Mali from France, and reminds everyone that birds both walk and fly, uniting heaven and earth, people and their destiny. Puppets are performed by youth groups, who also cast satirical characters such as Madame Sarata (a flirt) and Taasi Dooni (“reflect a little”).
Object number2003.103
Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, Is Egyptian Art African?, June 2, 1998 - July 30, 1999
Seattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, "SAM at 75: Building a Collection for Seattle", May 5, 2007 - September 9, 2007Credit LineGift of Mark Groudine and Cynthia Putnam, in honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Seattle Art Museum
DimensionsL.: 21in. (53.3cm)
MediumWood, pigment
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