A carved wood Awalé (Mancala-family) game board in the sculptural form of a crocodile, measuring approximately 19 x 6.5 inches. The board's exterior is fully carved to resemble a crocodile's head, ridged back, and textured tail, finished in a rich dark stain with a glossy surface. The interior opens on a hinge to reveal two rows of six cupped playing pits, shown with a set of seeds used as counters. The reptile's head and tail form the rounded ends of the board when closed.
Awalé, part of the wider Mancala family of counting and strategy games, is among the oldest and most widely played traditional games across West Africa, historically carved from wood and played with seeds, shells, or small stones as counters. This example combines functional gameplay with figurative sculptural carving, making it both a playable game and a decorative object.
Details:
- Type: Awalé (Mancala) game board, hinged two-row form, crocodile sculptural design
- Material: Carved wood, dark polished finish
- Dimensions: approx. 19 x 6.5 inches
- Condition: Good, carving and hinge intact (see photos)
- Includes: Playing seeds/counters as shown