Plank mask with circular face and tall, vertical superstructure. The face has two large concentric circle eyes outlined in repeating triangles, and a small tubular mouth within a black area with a jagged edge. A black downward-curving projection is attached to the diamond-shaped panel that connects the mask to the long rectangular board. The board is painted with geometric shapes in black on a white background. Surmounted by a crescent-shape.

• History Of Use

  Adopted from the neighbouring Nunuma and Winiama peoples in the early twentieth century, the nwantantay masks are performed at initiation ceremonies, funerals, and secular entertainments. Vigorous, competitive performers grip a rope fastened along the mask’s back using their teeth, twisting and repeatedly tilting the towering plank, while twirling long fibre costumes to imitate their associated insect spirits. Composed of a circular face and upper plank, surmounted by a crescent moon, dense design elements proliferate with meaning: eyes reference owls; upturned beaks refer to hornbills, birds that are especially rich in nyama; checker-board patterns evoke the black and white hides sat on by elders and youths, respectively; while other symbols signify lineage affiliation.

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• Type of Item mask
• Culture Bwa
• Material wood, paint
• Measurements height 184.3 cm, width 30.9 cm, depth 28.1 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 Burkina Faso

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

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• Condition good
• Accession Number 3420/0027