These one-of-a-kind wooden fish are made by hand in Segou, Mali. The Bozo ethnic group (known as River Masters), who live on the banks of the Niger River, use these fish as puppets in their water ritual. They are hand carved from a single piece of wood and hand painted with Acajou paint.

The Bozo people originally came from Ghana and settled in Mali around the 10th century. They are dedicated almost exclusively to fishing and its trade and exchange. Its culture and works of art focus on its interaction with the Niger River, hence the importance of fish in their lives.

This type of fish is used in different social events. They were used, for example, during the performance of young men's dance troops. The fish are used as drums, puppets and masks in performances called Sogo Ba. Some of these fish are thought to be placed on the head while performing tribal dances. Now they are painted and decorated for you. 

We also have small wooden fish in our shop.

If you would like to see more photos of a specific fish, please send an email to info@mayala-home.com. We are happy to send them to you. Sizes are mentioned in the product details.