Title

SONGHAY Culture of Arts from eastern Mali, western Niger, and northern Benin - (Fetish Figure)

Creator

Prairie View A&M University

Preview

Description

This Songye fetish sculpture was made primarily to be used by their secret societies. Large fetish figures are known to be protectors of the entire villages, while smaller ones are used to protect individuals and families from death and disease.

Culture and Traditions

Songhai-Zarma people have included the kings and warriors, the scribes, the artisans, the weavers, the hunters, the fishermen, the leather workers and hairdressers (Wanzam), and the domestic slaves (Horso, Bannye). Each caste reveres its own guardian spirit. The Kingdom of Songhai, or Songhay, developed from a community of fishermen who lived along the Niger River and were skilled canoeists. During the 9th century they became part of the state of Songhai and began trading with Muslim traders in Gao, which than became part of the kingdom.

Donation Details

Dan Wainberg donated in the year 2002.

Notes

The Appraised Amount is $40,000.00

Date of Digitization

6/27/2022

Contributing Institution

J. B . Coleman Library

Rights

© 2021 Prairie View A & M University

Recommended Citation

Prairie View A&M University, "SONGHAY Culture of Arts from eastern Mali, western Niger, and northern Benin - (Fetish Figure)" (2022). African Sculptures and Masks. 14.
https://digitalcommons.pvamu.edu/african-sculptures-and-masks/14