EXCEPTIONAL PAIR OF CALAO SHIELDS – CARVED WOOD AND...

BOUCLIERS CALAO – BURKINA FASO – CARVED AND POLYCHROMED WOOD N°1 HEIGHT: 35 cm WIDTH: 35 cm THICKNESS 5 cm N°2 HEIGHT: 34.5 cm WIDTH: 34 cm THICKNESS: 5 cm This remarkable pair of shields called the “Calao,” from Burkina Faso, bears witness to the richness of wood arts and the geometric language developed in the artistic traditions of this region of West Africa. The two shields are carved in wood and present an imposing circular shape. Their surface is entirely structured by geometrical compositions that are particularly dynamic. The first features a spectacular contrast of black, white, red and ochre, organized around a large central red medallion. The numerous oblique lines create a powerful graphic movement. The second bears a deep brown patina, animated by white motifs arranged in rays around a circular center. Its cut edge and its small touches of color reinforce its decorative character. The reverse allows observation of the traditional construction of the object: the wood retains its tool marks, while a prominent central handle is directly carved in the mass. The differences in decoration between the two pieces make this set particularly interesting: they share the same circular design while each possesses its own aesthetic identity. The wear, irregularities of the wood and variations of polychromy visible in the photographs fully contribute to the character and material history of these objects.

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