Hyaena mask "suruku" of the "korè society" · Mali, Bamana · ID: 3034827
not available anymore
Size
H: 40 cm
H: 15.7 inch
Description
wood, dark brown patina, pointed triangular protruding nose, jagged forehead ridge and opened mouth, pierced around the rim, small missing parts, slight traces of abrasion, metal socle;
the masks are considered as bearers of energy, and already during their making they receive blood sacrifices. During the performance the dancers show a crooked posture, leaning on short sticks, which optical lengthens their arms and imitates the bearing of a hyaena. The meaning of the hyaena mask differs according to the respective context of its appearance. Within the scope of the “koré” celebration the hyaena in most cases symbolizes the effort of the initiates to perfect their secret knowledge.