African Art, Unique Hand Carved Bao Mancala Board Game

Bao is an abstract strategy game from East Africa, especially Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania. It is generally reckoned to be the most complicated of the Mancala family games that are played in many parts of Africa. On a Bao board has 32 ports each player has two rows of holes, into which counters (seeds) are placed. Moves are made by taking more than one seed and ‘sowing’ them along the row of holes. Depending on where the last seed is placed, you can take the seeds from that hole and continue the sowing, possibly capturing seeds from your opponent in the process. The aim of the game is to empty your opponent’s front row of seeds or make it impossible for him to move.

The surface is intricately carved with a wildlife scene, featuring animals like giraffes, elephants, and lions each depicted with remarkable detail and life-like expression. The carvings are framed by elegant depictions of trees, adding to the board’s natural aesthetic. Challenge your friends and family to a game of strategy and skill with this one-of-a-kind piece. It is sure to be a conversation starter and a valuable addition to any collection.

Measurements are 25 inches by 12 inches