Anthropomorphic comb mask "konden" or "ntomo"

---

Description

wood, silver sheet, collection label “74503”

The function of “konden” is not clearly resolved.

In Goldwater (1960, p. 60, ill. 105) a mask of the same type is described as an initiation mask for boys.

Elsewhere it is described as embodying something like the “bogeyman”. “Konden” has a reputation for the finest dance movements, but also of being quick to strike out with his riping crop to punish naughty children.

A clear ethnic classification of “konden” is also difficult. Mostly they are attributed to the Malinke or Bamana. Goldwater placed them among the Marka. Nowadays they are mainly found in Upper Guinea, in the Siguiri prefecture.

---

Comparing literature

Goldwater, Robert, Bambara sculpture from the Western Sudan, New York 1960, p. 60, ill. 105 AHDRC 0180025

---