This Baga statue is known as a Nimba or D’mba. It was carved in the shape of a typical Baga shoulder mask, though this one was meant for decorative purposes, not use. She was decorated with metal plating on her face and parts of her body. The statue measures 24 inches tall and weighs 11 pounds. One of her legs is much shorter than the rest and there is a nail in the bottom to keep her balanced. There is some cracking scuffing and general wear and tear throughout – please inspect photos.
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The Baga people live amid the southern swampy lands of the Guinea Atlantic coastline. According to oral tradition, they originally lived along the interior highlands but were driven westward by their neighbors. The name ‘Baga’ is believed to have come from the phrase ‘bae raka’, meaning “people of the seaside”.
Read more about the Baga here.
Metal Plated Baga Nimba Statue 24″ – Guinea – African Art
Original price was: $295.00.$236.00Current price is: $236.00.
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| Type of Object | Figure, statue |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Guinea |
| Ethnicity | Baga |
| Material | Wood, pigment and metal |
| Approximate Age | Unknown |
| Height (Inches) | 24" |
| Width (Inches) | 8” |
| Depth (Inches) | 14” |
| Weight (Pounds) | 11 lbs |
| Overall Condition | Part of leg missing. Cracking, scuffing and wear and tear. |
Tribe Information
About the Baga People
The Baga people live amid the southern swampy lands of the Guinea Atlantic coastline. According to oral tradition, they originally lived along the interior highlands but were driven westward by their neighbors. The name ‘Baga’ is believed to have come from the phrase ‘bae raka’, meaning “people of the seaside”.
Read more about the Baga here.
Additional Information
About the Nimba or D’mba Figure
D’mba figures will usually come in a male and female pairing. These figures would be placed in a shrine to ensure agricultural and human fertility where offerings would be made. D’mba figures are often shown in a prayer like posture. D’mba masks and figures are often danced during special ceremonies and celebrations.