Awalé. Tanzania, 20th century

Awalé. Tanzania, 20th century.
Wooden set with 2 flared legs on round base and 32 reserves.
Glossy brown patina.
Measurements: 21 x 30 x 55,5 cm.

Oware is a game of African origin that, according to some sources, can be considered the first board game in history. It is played on a board with 12 holes, 6 for each player. Oware pieces (usually seeds) are all equal and do not belong to any player. The principle "The seeds belong to those who need them. Whoever sows the best will reap the best harvest". At the start of the game 4 seeds are placed in each hole. The game is played in 2 phases: sowing and harvesting. In each turn, the players take all the seeds from one of their holes and sow them in the successive holes. Then, if the rules of the game allow it, they can harvest. There are two important rules: you cannot eliminate your opponent and you cannot let your opponent starve. At the end of the game, the player who has harvested the most seeds wins.