Jelimuso: African Griotte

A "Jelimuso" is a term specific to the Manding people of West Africa. It refers to a female griot or praise singer. The Jelimuso is a highly respected and skilled musician, oral historian, and cultural custodian within the Manding society. Jelimusos are not only known for their musical talents but also for their ability to recount genealogies, historical events, and praise the achievements of individuals and families through their songs and storytelling.

They often accompany themselves on traditional instruments such as the kora (a West African harp), balafon (a xylophone-like instrument), or ngoni (a plucked string instrument). Jelimusos play a significant role in preserving and transmitting the cultural heritage of the Manding people. They are considered living archives of oral tradition, and their performances are highly valued for their historical and entertainment value.

The Manding people, also known as the Mandinka, Malinke, or the alternative English term Mandingo, are an ethnic group primarily located in West Africa. They are spread across several countries, including Mali, Guinea, Senegal, Gambia, Ivory Coast, and Burkina Faso. Historically, the Manding were part of the Mali Empire, one of the largest and most powerful empires in West Africa during the 13th to 16th centuries. The empire was renowned for its wealth, intellectual pursuits, and trade networks. Notable figures such as Mansa Musa, who is considered one of the richest individuals in history, belonged to the Manding.

This release by Obour Ba depicts a female African Griotte holding a kora as she stands proudly in front of others in attendance waiting to her words, songs and music.

This work of art is available as a giclee on paper or as a giclee on canvas. All giclee on paper prints are printed on acid-free papers using archival inks to guarantee that they last a lifetime without fading or loss of color. All art prints include a 1" white border around the image to allow for future framing and matting if desired.

All Giclee on Canvas reproductions are shipped and delivered to you "ready to hang" with a pre-attached hanging wire, mounting hooks, and nails.

Note: This is a print-on-demand giclee and expedited shipping is not available for this item. It takes 3 to 14 business days for us to process and ship this item. Please contact our office if you have any questions.