Hyaena mask "suruku" ·  Mali, Bamana · ID: 3032602

Description

wood, dark brown patina, forehead projection containing the life-giving energy “nyama”, pierced around the rim, rep. (left ear), min. dam., slight traces of abrasion;
the masks are looked upon as bearers of energy, and already during their making they receive blood sacrifices. During the performance the dancers take a crooked posture, leaning on short sticks, which optical lengthens their arms and imitates the bearing of a hyaena.