Giraffe
Gan · Burkina Faso
Reference: MYA-43
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- Height
- 56.70 cm
- Material
- Iron
Some of the great African animals are protagonists of many myths. They are attributed magical qualities, and special powers in addition to their strength or agility,…
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Full original description
Some of the great African animals are protagonists of many myths. They are attributed magical qualities, and special powers in addition to their strength or agility, as is the case with the giraffe, whose tail is an attribute of power for the high-ranking chiefs of some peoples, thanks to its magical powers. Madonna Gaudid, who among many other authors has carefully studied the behavior and symbolism of many African animals, tells us that the giraffe, besides being a model of foresight, kindness, compassion and silence, protects against invisible damage. Among its magical qualities are that of being able to cure or help guess hidden things, which is why healers and fortune tellers use it in their magical and divinatory rites. The giraffe is a silent animal. An African tale tells us that God asked the giraffe if he had a particular desire. The giraffe replied: “Lord, I desire wisdom,” and God answered him: “Then you will never speak, because the charlatans are mad, while silence is wisdom.” Ancient piece that demonstrates the art of blacksmiths.
Further technical information
- Width
- 29 cm
- Attributed period
- First third century XX
Details transcribed from the original catalogue; they are not a recent physical inspection.
Country on the map
Burkina Faso. The country associated with the catalog is shown, not the current location of the piece.
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