Africa, the South Pacific, and the Americas

animal head helmet mask (kunugbaha) for poro association
animal head helmet mask (kunugbaha) for poro association
Culture or people Senufo people
Creation date 1920-1950
Materials wood, pigment, metal, fiber
Dimensions 10 3/4 x 15 1/4 x 8 1/4 in.
Credit line Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Harrison Eiteljorg
Accession number 1989.213
Gallery Label

Masks incorporating more than one animal or animal part are believed to contain supernatural powers that may be directed against lawbreakers, sorcerers and the wandering dead. This example is worn on top of the head and depicts a spotted hyena. It has boar tusks at the corners of the mouth and a chameleon, associated with mysterious powers and knowledge, sits on the top of the head.


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animal, hippopotamus, mask, Senoufo, Senufo, Siena, Sienna, Sudan, Western Africa, wood
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