Among the Bamana people of Mali, oral traditions credit a mythical being named Ci Wara, a divine being half mortal and half animal, with the introduction of agriculture to the Bamana. Bamana society is primarily an agricultural one; even today the majority of Bamana peoples are subsistence farmers. These headdresses, also called ci wara, are carved to honour that original mythical being, and are worn during festivals used to praise the farmers and give thanks for their produce.

Also known as Bamako headdresses, they inspired early 20th century artists such as Brancusi and Leger, and they make fine decorative pieces for the home.

The price quoted is for the pair.