Mask

ClassificationsClothing and Adornments-masks

Culture Bwa

Datelate 20th Century

Made AtMali, Africa

Made AtBurkina Faso, Africa

MediumWood and pigment

Dimensions121 1/2 × 11 × 9 in. (308.6 × 27.9 × 22.9 cm)

Credit LineGift of Anne and Long Shung Shih

Object number2013.5.21

DescriptionIn Bwa society, the identity and continued well-being of a family are often tied to a nature spirit, and also to bring blessing to the village. The serpent is seen as a protective spirit, according to Bwa myth. This type of mask represents the spirit of a number of animals who saved the clan in the mythical past (268). These masks appear at important funerals, agricultural festivities, and initiation rituals. Bwa masks are known to cover the entire dancer, usually with long grasses, like the mask above.

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