Crocodile mask ·  Burkina Faso, Nuna · ID: 3039009

Description

wood, polychrome paint, the whole body carved with triangular ornaments, rep. (breakage right hind leg, tail), missing parts (back), traces of insect caused damage and abrasion;
the Nuna consider crocodiles as guardians of standpipes. They also play an important role within the worship of the ancestors. Wearing this mask demanded strength and skill because it was not allowed to knock the mask against something although strong movements of the head were performed.

Comparing literature

Förster, Till, Skulptur in Westafrika, Freiburg im Breisgau 1995, p. 67