Risian bird mask. Mask with a bird head and vertical rectangular superstructure. The bird has two large concentric circle eyes, a raised red ridge, and a long curved beak. Both the head and the beak are painted with black and white repeating triangle designs in various sizes. Long brown plant fibre hair is attached across the back of the face mask, and hangs down. Panel is surmounted by a large crescent with smaller diamond and triangle shapes.

• History Of Use

  The Nunuma, Lèle, Waniama and Nuna, who are referred to collectively by the Mossi as Gurunsi, have exerted a strong influence on Mossi and Bwa mask styles. Gurunsi masks, representing powerful bush spirits who safeguard families, clans and communities, are individually owned and on death pass to eldest sons or are retired to spirit houses. The masks were used in initiations, funerals and, more recently, popular entertainment.

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• Type of Item mask
• Culture Mossi
• Material wood, paint, plant fibre
• Measurements height 146.9 cm, width 24.4 cm, depth 34.8 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 fair
• Accession Number 3420/0038