Tuareg tent pole. Niger, 20th century.

Tuareg tent pole. Niger, 20th century.
Fretworked and carved wood.
It presents some visible restorations.
Measurements: 140 cm. height.

Tuareg (ehe) tent pole from Niger, in carved wood with geometric motifs that pierce its beautifully fretworked structure.

The Tuaregs are a Berber (or Amazigh) people of nomadic tradition from the Sahara desert. Their population is spread over six African countries: Algeria, Libya, Niger, Mali, Mauritania and Burkina Faso. When they move, they cover both their needs and those of their animals, because they live in extended family units that carry large herds under their care. They have their own script, Tifinagh, and their own language, Tamashek.

The tent (ehe) is identified with marriage and the home. The woman must make it, with skins or basket weaving, and is its owner. The women have authority in the camp, since the man is frequently absent, in his activities as shepherd, trader or warrior.