The name Bamabara remains linked to this symbol of African art and tradition called "Ty wara".

These famous antelope figures, all differ in style and size. Used by the young age classes, the "ty wara" are taken out as a couple for feasts celebrating agricultural life.

The one shown here represents an antelope, and its body is entirely decorated with engravings. The female antelope often carries a young one on her back.

Due to the semi-desertic region where the Bambaras live, it is very difficult to find a tree big enough to carve such a long object. The piece is therefore composed of two distinct parts, assembled at the neck with metal staples. Then the sculture is solidly tied on a small woven hat, enabling one to fix the "ty wara" on the dancer's head.