Horizontal helmet mask "warakun" oder "kòmòkun" ·  Mali, Bamana · ID: 3035946

Description

wood, encrusted greyish-brown patina, remains of fabric, animal hair and blackish mass along the elongated snout with zigzag-teeth, square see holes, incised ornaments, dam., missing parts (tip of the snout and of both ears), surface marked by insect caused damage, cracks (calotte), abrasion of paint, metal base;
such helmet masks known as “warakun” (head of the beast) or “kòmòkun” (head of “kòmò”) are instruments of the “kòmò” power association. Although “kòmò” meetings and perfomances are not public - they are held at night in the bush - the association acts on behalf of individuals and the community, assisting in times of crisis and illness and responding to attacks of sorcery or spirits. Masks are carved in the bush, and every sculptor has his own “recipe” for investing a mask with “nyama”. Herbal substances mixed with earth are applied to the mask, which refers not to a single animal but is a metaphor for all that is bush. The huge mouth may be that of a crocodile, thought protective. In performance, the “kòmò” masquerade charges out of the bush, challenging its audience with quick aggressive movements. The performer may execute acrobatics or dramatic feats of spitting fire or water.

Comparing literature

Fagaly, William, Ancestors of Congo Square, New Orleans 2011, p. 60