Animal mask, carved and painted. The mask has a narrow rounded head, flat face, and pointed chin. It has a very prominent brow ridge, which extends across the face, and a long narrow nose. There are two small holes cutout for eyes. Long oval ears are on either side of the head. Covered in red, blue and black polka dots on a white background. The mouth is open, showing teeth and all red.

• History Of Use

  Sogo bò (animals come out), a multi-media spectacle of masquerades, puppetry, drumming and song, was originally practiced by Bozo fishing communities--until the mid-nineteenth century when it was adopted by the Bamana blacksmith guild. The animal masks mainly depict those classified as 'sogofin', dark, powerful creatures such as monkeys, hyenas, lions, wild cats, antelopes, hippopotami, and elephants, those which are heavily infused with 'nyama' (life-force).

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• Type of Item mask
• Culture Bozo, Bamana
• Material wood, paint
• Measurements height 39.0 cm, width 20.0 cm, depth 16.5 cm (overall)

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• Previous Owner Richard Tchuemegne
• Received from Richard Tchuemegne, Michael O'Brian Family Foundation, Museum of Anthropology Exhibitions Budget

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• Made in Segou

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• Ownership Date before February 5, 2020
• Acquisition Date on February 5, 2020

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• Condition good
• Accession Number 3420/0057