Collecting African Tribal Art : Symbiotic relations, Logic and being Gracious.

This post explores various reflections around a single relation reflected in the Tussian Helmet mask. This is the relation between the buffalo and the egret. I remember as a young boy asking my mom about the egrets standing tall and silent on cattle feeding in an abandoned golf course. The abstraction of the buffalo in the mask typically reflects this and shows one or two egrets standing atop the mask (Kablé). In reality the egrets feed on insects disturbed by the movement of buffalo or cattle through the muddy grassland (commensalism). Occasionally the egrets also feed on parasitic ticks and insects which can harm the buffalo (mutualism).

Northern Tussian or Siemu, Burkina Faso
Wood, fabric; h. 21¼”,
Afrika Museum, Berg en Dal, Netherlands

Symbiotic relations refer to interactions between different species that live in close proximity, where their lives are intertwined. These relationships can be categorized into mutualism, where both parties benefit, commensalism, where one benefits without affecting the other significantly, and parasitism, where one benefits at the expense of the other. These dynamics are not exclusive to the natural world and can be observed in various human interactions and partnerships. In human relations, a mentorship could be mutualistic, where both gain knowledge, while a one-sided friendship might be commensal, benefiting one more than the other.

The relationship between the egret and the water buffalo is a classic example of mutualism. The egret benefits by feeding on insects stirred up by the buffalo’s movement, while the buffalo gets relief from pests. This mirrors mutualistic human relations, like collaborative work where both parties gain. Commensalism could be seen in situations where one person benefits from a friendship, like emotional support, without directly impacting the other’s well-being. Commensalism can also be everyday transitory interactions such as giving up a plane seat or a bus seat for a fellow passenger.

The actualization of the relation is quite separate from simply having an understanding of the logical differences in definition. There are many times when a person needs to tap into a fountain of graciousness and anticipation before a non-negative symbiotic relation can be initiated. In our modern world initial discussions center around ‘alphaspeak’, first impressions, stereotypes or the laying of a framework to determine who is technically right or wrong about a particular topic. In muddied semi toxic environments it is easy to lose the path to commensalism or mutualism. The example of the relation between the powerful buffalo and the egret does not simply encourage the development of natural attributes but also promotes the development of positive social and cultural values.