Funerary Post 1 at Quai Branly, Paris

myminifactory

Human: This unique funerary post originates from the Bara or Sakalava population in southern Madagascar, dating back to the 19th century. Crafted from a combination of wood, cow heads, and metal, this intricate structure showcases the creativity and skill of its creators. The Mahafaly people of Madagascar pay tribute to deceased members of their chiefly and royal lineages by constructing grand burial sites that stand as testaments to their ancestors' legacies. Each tomb is a solid, box-like stone sculpture adorned with up to thirty wood carvings, serving as a poignant reminder of the deceased individuals while exploring abstract concepts surrounding the nature of existence after death and the connection between the living and the dead. Funerary sculpture serves as a means of establishing a connection with the ancestral realm, rather than merely depicting the deceased. The Mahafaly have designated the term "aloalo" specifically for works used at royal burial sites, derived from the word "alo," which implies an intermediary or messenger. This term emphasizes the work's functional aspect over its physical form. Alo also refers to the creation of linkages and visual interlocking of abstract forms integrated into a harmonious design, highlighting the work's role as an intermediary between the worlds of the living and dead. Funerary posts were often adorned with animal skulls and skeletons, including those considered sacred or revered in the afterlife. This object is part of "Scan The World," a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory, which aims to create a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from around the globe for public access. Scan The World is an open-source community effort, inviting individuals to contribute interesting items and email stw@myminifactory.com to learn how they can participate.