Lot 616

A Baga Serpent figure or Mantsho na Tschol , Guinea H 125 The spiritual force represented by such headdress, known as a-Mantsho-ña-Tshol, or roughly "master of medicine," reigns supreme in Baga society. The primary physical manifestation of a-Mantsho-ña-Tshol is as this brilliantly coloured, larger-than-life aquatic serpent resembling a boa constrictor. The sinuous curves and undulating contours of the elegant sculptural representation evoke the power, elusive grace, and flexibility of this Baga spiritual entity. Swiss collection with label