Tirachinas Bonu Amwin

Slingshots or slingshots, depending on the region, are actually a small, sling-like, first weapon capable of injuring or killing remotely. The slingshot replaces the slingstrings with two elastics that are tied to the tips of the fork of the slingshot, which is but a handle from which two arms in the form of “Y” depart, the other tip of the elastics is tied to a small piece of leather of a few centimetres squares in which the projectile will be housed, usually a stone. Tirachinas have been widely used throughout West Africa, possibly introduced by the early colonizers. Many date from the middle of the century XX. As in all African objects, aesthetics have been attached to the utilitarian aspect and as with other objects, ceremonial spoons or stools, the beauty of the object denotes the rank of its owner. The slingshot of the son of a chief or a notable must be more beautiful than that of the son of a simple farmer. They are as varied as imagination can reach. This object is highly appreciated by African children who use it to play, to hunt small animals or kill vermin.

Natural light wood with shiny patina. The handle of the slingshot reproduces a Bo Nu Amwin zoomorfa mask, representing the buffalo. This mask was worn by men before they left for war and to ask for protection against spells and bad harvests. Two heads top the bottom of the tiragomas.