In the major cities of Madagascar, such as Antananarivo, it is not uncommon to see decorative sculptures that enhance the urban landscape (though, of course, it’s anyone’s guess whether murals should be thrown into this category). These works, which depict bush taxis, wooden airplanes, human figures, and various other motifs, reflect the artistic and cultural identity of the Malagasy people.
Often painted and crafted with great care, these sculptures vary in style and purpose depending on the ethnic group. Some are used to decorate tombs, while others simply add beauty to their surroundings. On tombs, they stand out for their originality. For example, an airplane may symbolise the social status of the deceased, suggesting that they either travelled by air or dreamed of doing so. This representation also serves as a metaphor: the airplane is seen as a practical way to “ascend to the sky.” Some tombs even bear the name of the national airline. Others may feature numerous sculptures of women, which are said to symbolise a man who had multiple wives or dreamed of having them. However, these interpretations remain speculative.
Beneath these sculptures lies the tomb itself, where the deceased is laid to rest. This space, sometimes decorated with small mirrors, is dedicated to a single person. Around the coffin, zebu horns from funeral sacrifices and stones are placed. These elements, along with personal belongings of the deceased, symbolically accompany them to the afterlife. The number of horns often reflects the significance of the funeral.
Standing stones, typical of the Antandroy, and aloalo, wooden totems unique to the Mahafaly, are other distinctive funerary elements. Measuring between 1 and 1.8 metres in height, aloalo are usually painted and oriented towards the east. Unlike Sakalava statues, aloalo never depict erotic scenes. Initially, they featured representations of ibises or zebus, but their designs have evolved over time. They now include realistic scenes or elements connected to the deceased’s life: a woman consulting a healer, a funeral procession, armed warriors, a cyclist, or even a pipe smoker. These sculptures demonstrate exceptional craftsmanship.
Tip for tourists: If you wish to photograph these sculptures, it’s common to be asked for a fee, often citing their sacred nature. This practice isn’t always tied to fady (cultural taboos). To avoid misunderstandings, seek advice from your guide, who will provide you with the necessary context.
