Hyaena mask "suruku" of the "korè" society · Mali, Bamana · ID: 3035554
Jan Lundberg, Malmö, Sweden
Description
wood, blackish brown patina, encrusted in some areas, a concave vaulted facial plane with protruding narrow snout, big tapering ears, a small projection on the head, raised ridge on both sides, slightly dam., minor missing parts (nose, rims of the mask, cracks), rest. (lower jaw supplemented), metal socle;
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. 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.
Comparing literature
Colleyn, Jean Paul (Hg.), Bamana, Zürich 2001, p. 98
Publications
Afrikanskt/African Art, A Source of Inspiration for Modern Art, Malmö 1986, p. 18, ill. 7Exhibition
Malmö Konsthall, "Afrikanskt/African Art", 22.3-19.5 1986