Iron Chameleon
Gan, Burkina Faso
Iron, accumulation
18th - 19th century

In Burkina Faso, the chameleon is a powerful symbol of both cultural and spiritual significance associated with change and the transformation of an individual from the mortal state to that of the spirit. The primordial nature of chameleons associates them intimately with notions of cosmic time. Also, the chameleon's ability to change color earns them much distrust, along with their ability to look forward with one turret eye while looking back with the other.

Chameleons were manifested in masks, pendants, and altarpieces that served most frequently as protective spirits, but also served to enhance the power of the owner, to combat the supernatural forces of disease and sorcery, and even to counteract the effects of the phases of the moon.

The religious and functional artwork of the Gan, who call themselves the Kaaba or Kamba, has often been misattributed to neighboring groups in Burkina Faso and Ghana such as the Senufo, Lobi, or Kulango. Research indicates that the Gan (who can be distinguished by their regionally unique language) originated in central Ghana and emigrated northwest to Burkina Faso in the 15th century. Not coincidentally, Gan bronzes excavated in Burkina Faso can date back to the 15th century, but not earlier (Beckwith & Fisher, African Ceremonies, 1999; Protective Pendant (Sabi na fre), Met Museum, 1982.485.12; A. Naegele, pers. communication, Dec 2, 2016; Roy & Wheelock, Land of the Flying Masks, 2007; Schaedler, Earth and Ore, 1997).

This piece, possibly an altarpiece, but clearly an archaeological artifact of uncertain origin, wears a strand of iron, ingeniously tied around it like a shoelace, forming the legs.

L: 5.25 in :: 13 cm

InventoryID #13-378

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