Helmet mask "suaga" ·  Cameroon, Mambila · ID: 3032542

Description

wood, encrusted black patina, red and white pigment, carved with horns and funnel-shaped snout, slightly dam., cracks (calotte), abrasion;
the most significant mask dancers of the “suaga” celebrations are called “suaga due” (“big suaga”) and “suaga bor” (“dog suaga”). For the creation of “suaga bor” masks special magical ingredients are needed, which require the ritual killing of dogs. The drilled holes at the rim serve for attachment of a plaited costume, enveloping the mask dancers body.

Comparing literature

Hahner-Herzog, Iris, Das Zweite Gesicht, Genf, München, New York 1997, ill. 60