African Rhythm

Traditional wrestling, also known as “Laamb” in Wolof, is a centuries-old sport in Sénégal. In terms of form, it is very similar to the Greco-Roman style of wrestling; however, it is very typical of traditional, African wrestling. There are two forms of Laamb: the first allows the wrestlers to strike each other with their bare hands, which can be painful; the second is more acrobatic, and hitting is not permitted. When a wrestler’s back touches the ground, the bout is over; he has lost. Laamb is as much a spiritual activity as it is physical; and wrestlers engage in various rites and rituals preparatory to fighting. No wrestler, regardless of his strength, physical, or technical abilities, will ever dare to enter the ring, much less fight, without his “marabout” or without participating in his own pre-match ceremony. During the ceremony, the wrestler, accompanied by drummers and singers, dances around the arena; around his arms, legs, and waist are various kinds of esoteric pendants or amulets the purpose of which is to protect him against evil spirits and the witchcraft of other fighters. It is this aspect of the sport which elevates a wrestling match beyond the level of ordinary spectator sport. Many people attend as much for the enjoyment of the ceremony as for the sport.

Capture the essence of childhood on your walls. The feeling of wanting to get older that gripped you with excitement and trepidation. As she waited in a distant gaze, her eyes melted like ice awaiting their return, her face is distraught, wild eyed, elderly, introspective. The image gives us a black child with a rich lime-painted nose and eye lids. There is both beauty and toxicity to her They are created in colors that evoke clown paint, the exciting use of line and color has the kind of kinetic energy the viewer can practically absorb; it’s tactile and almost seems to vibrate off the walls. Perfect in a lounge or waiting area!

Bring nature into your home with this beautiful woven vase. Handwoven in Northern Nigeria with dried grasses. This hourglass-shaped vase is completely unique, not mass produced and is a fine example of rural West African basketry. Designed with versatility in mind, it's also a great fit for utensils in the kitchen or for stationery in the office! Entirely handmade and skillfully shaped without a frame, each vase. Handmade

• A perfect addition to every room!
• Our standard canvas is a finely textured artist-grade cotton substrate which consistently reproduces image details with outstanding clarity and detail.