Bambara / Bozo Fish Puppets
Ritual Art and the Spirit of the Niger River
OOA Design presents a remarkable collection of five hand-carved Bambara and Bozo fish puppets from Mali — rare examples of West African ritual art that blend symbolism, storytelling, and masterful craftsmanship.
The Bozo people, often known as the masters of the river, have lived in close harmony with the Niger River for centuries. Fishing, boats, and aquatic imagery form the core of their cultural identity, inspiring an artistic language where water and spirit converge.
Each puppet in this collection is individually carved from local wood, then enhanced with natural pigments or smoked to achieve a rich patina. Their elongated silhouettes and rhythmic patterns evoke the movement of fish gliding through water, translating nature’s fluidity into stylized forms of African sculpture.
Traditionally, these puppets — known as Sogobo Fish Puppets — were performed during Sogo Ba masquerades, where music, dance, and theatre unite to celebrate ancestry and community. When animated by young performers, the puppets become vibrant symbols of life’s cycles and the spiritual connection between humans and the river.
Sourced by Yah Bakayoko, this selection embodies both visual beauty and deep cultural meaning. Each piece tells a story of ritual, identity, and artistic mastery — a bridge between traditional Malian art and contemporary appreciation.
Through this collection, OOA Design continues its commitment to showcasing authentic African art, honoring the creative heritage and enduring spirit of West African craftsmanship.
