Buffalo helmet mask, before 1930
Cameroon Grassfields, Bamileke
not available anymore
Provenance
American Private CollectionSize
L: 76 cm
L: 29.9 inch
Description
wood, kaolin,
Buffalo masks are widespread in the Grassland area and are part of almost every dance ensemble of the various societies. They are danced at initiation ceremonies and funeral services but also during “nja” harvest celebrations.
The buffalo is said to have strength, courage and power. After the leopard and the elephant, it is also one of the royal symbols of the Grassland area.