In the heart of Mali, where the fabled Harmattan winds echo through the Sahara Desert, emerges the extraordinary story of Sambou Sissoko – “the man from Mali.” Devoid of formal education, Sambou embarked on a remarkable journey, starting as a humble boy selling peanuts on the bustling streets of Bamako.

With an innate entrepreneurial spirit, Sambou’s ascent in the business world was unstoppable. From crafting tasty sauces and ready-to-eat popular foods to venturing into locally made products, he always stayed ahead of his competition. His natural instinct for expanding enterprise propelled him to the pinnacle of success – a major gold merchant traveling to Europe to sell bullion, a millionaire in his own right

Witnessing the growing allure of African art among tourists and European dealers, Sambou boldly entered the art market in 1961. In a visionary move, he acquired the entire inventory of one of Samir Borro’s chief African suppliers in the Ivory Coast. This marked the beginning of Sambou’s journey to assemble what many consider one of the most formidable collections of African art globally. A chance encounter during a major fair in the United States solidified the friendship between Sambou and a fellow collector. Facing ignorant or underhanded vetting tactics meant to cripple competitiveness, Sambou’s keen eye and unwavering confidence in his expertise became a beacon of strength.

The duo stood proud and apart, choosing a path of discreet and private dealings, finding peace in the simplicity of life. Driven by an expansive nature, Sambou’s collection spans multiple warehouses in Phoenix, his family home, and a grand mansion in Bamako. His love for monumental sculptures from various tribes reflects his appreciation for size and grandeur. The collection showcases masterpieces, including an awe-inspiring Bakongo maternity, a courthouse pillar by Yoruba sculptor Olowe of Ise, and the regal god Eshu, masterfully carved by Maku.

As we explore Sambou’s collection, we not only witness the grandeur of African art but also the indomitable spirit of a man who transformed humble beginnings into a legacy of cultural richness. Join us on this journey through Sambou Sissoko’s life and collection, where each piece tells a story of resilience, passion, and the boundless beauty of African art.