Female Figure (nyeleni)

This figure represents a beautiful young Bamana woman of marriageable age. The lightly incised designs on the torso refer to the scarification patterns acquired by young women in the initiation ceremonies that prepare them for marriage. Historically among the Bamana, both girls and boys near puberty were initiated into the Jo society, an organization designed to instill the essential elements of what it means to be Bamana. The newly initiated young men toured neighboring villages for a period of several months, entertaining with songs and dances they learned during initiation. In return for the entertainment, the young men received gifts and had the opportunity to meet prospective brides and their families. By displaying figures like this one, the initiates illustrated their desire to meet eligible brides.