Janus helmet mask "wanyugo"
Description
wood, blackish brown patina, traces of white and red pigment, open mouth with strong teeth, hewers and tusks to either side, a small receptacle on the head, held by two stylized chameleons, drilled holes, slightly dam., minor missing parts, abrasion of paint, cracks;
zoomorphic “wanyugo” masks belong to the “wabele” society. They are send out during times of funerary ritual or times of crisis in order to search out and destroy any malevolent spirits and evil spells. Its menacing look should support them in their fight against baneful powers. From time to time a swarm of vicious bees or fire should have left the open jaws of the mask, which is why they are often called “firespitter” masks. The masks were enpowered by magical substances “wah” which were filled into the small receptacle on top of the cranium. But first its completion with a costume, the gestures and movements of the mask dancer and its involvement in a ceremonial context make the masks fully effective.