Hyaena mask "suruku" of the "korè" society ·  Mali, Bamana · ID: 3040854

Description

wood, brown patina, remains of black paint, red and indigo blue pigment, characteristic features: bulging forehead, elongated open snout, pierced see holes, small ears and incised scarification marks, slightly dam., minor missing parts (snout, backside at the rim), cracks, strong abrasion of paint.
Within the scope of the “koré” celebration the hyaena in most cases symbolizes the effort of the initiates to perfect their secret knowledge. For the hyaena knows all the secrets of the bush and is considered as mythical teacher.