Marionette Head of a Bird

Date20th century

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, 2007

Credit LineGift of Mark Groudine and Cynthia Putnam, in honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Seattle Art Museum

DimensionsL.: 21in. (53.3cm)

MediumWood, pigment