Legends, Sorcerers, and Enchanted Lizards

At once artistic and utilitarian, West Africa's door locks were decorated with figures that reflected the cultural, spiritual, and philosophical beliefs of the Bamana people of Mali. This work is the accompanying text of an eponymously-titled exhibit, drawn from the author's own collection, presented by the African Art Museum of the S.M.A. in October of 2001. After providing historical and ethnographic background, the author discusses the aesthetic practices demonstrated by the door locks. Finally more detailed examinations of the 67 locks and four doors comprising the exhibit are presented. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR