Contes et comptes de la cour

In Niger, Goshi, Rabi, Indo and Amania, the chief’s wives live seclucte in a enclosed courtyard which they are not allowed to leave because of their social status, according to an islamic tradition. Through intermediaries they engage in small commercial ventures. Peddlers, neighbours and goods go in and out, money passes through the walls. Life is rhythmed by these exchanges and through the gifts they send outside the women take part in marriages and baptisms which form the social agenda. The man has no rights over the possessions of his wives, who refuse to contribute to feeding the family : the husband alone is responsible for this. He has authority when it comes to freedom, so he hasto pay for it. The intendant, who represents the master is subject to ceaseless gibes. The animosity is heightened by the arrival of a fifth very young wife whom the husband settles in another village not far away.