Zemanek-Münster

Face mask of the "korè" society

Mali, Marka, San region
sold EUR 1,600
Provenance
German Private Collection
Size
H: 42 cm
H: 16.5 inch

Description

wood, matt brown patina, indigo blue fabric, prominent nose with hump, metal applications with plug-shaped projections, incised scarification marks, notched decor, slightly dam., abrasion of paint, traces of insect caused damage backside.
The “korè” society is concerned with good harvests, at which the cult of the “korè” is especially oriented towards rain. “Korè” is a nature god, a god of the fields and of vegeatation and growth in general, who is honoured annually, and also more especially every seven years, when the initiation of new members of the society is marked by special rites. During these rites a large number of animal masks appear.


Comparing literature

Colleyn, Jean Paul (Hg.), Bamana, Zürich 2001, p. 112 f.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Join over 10,000 tribal art collectors. Don't miss out on upcoming news and auctions.

Subscribe today