Origin: Burkina Faso, Bobo ethnic group

Dating: 2nd half of the 20^th century

Signature: MŻo/A/3545

Description:

A zoomorphic helmet mask depicting the head of an elephant, an animal respected as a symbol of strength and power. Bright colours enhance the magnetism of this mask that was worn during male initiation rituals. During the ceremony, the mask is dressed in a garment made of leaves and twigs to make the propitiating dances more spectacular. A large proboscis, long tasks, prominent ears and large round eyes: these are the elements that reflect the stylized image of this majestic animal.

The purchase of the masks collection was subsidized by the National Institute for Museums and Public Collections.

Literature:

https://www.african-art-artmorello.com/bobo-mask/
Delange Jacqueline, 1967, Arts et peuples de l’Afrique noire, Paris: Éditions Gallimard.
Leuzinger Elsy, 1961, Africa Nera, Milano: Il Saggiatore.