Large helmet mask "tönköngba" ·  Guinea, Landuma · ID: 3040652

Description

wood, greyish brown patina, kaolin, animal bristles, dome-shaped helmet in the centre, a long triangular snout protruding from the front, a pair of broad flat horns connected at their tips, larger areas incised with fine grooved decor, tubular eyes, drilled holes in pairs around the lower rim, slightly dam., minor missing parts, traces of insect caused damage (rim, inside), metal base;
this mask type served both as a shrine figure and as a dance headdress as well. It was used in connection with “a-tshol”, a carved shrine sculpture, used by healers. The mask type, which belonged to the ancient “simo” society and was looked upon as omniscent, is clouded in secrecy. According to an eye witness it is recorded that whoever uses this mask has great power, and can go through fire. The masks are guarded in a special house near the village and should protect the whole village community. “Tönköngba” was mostly ascribed to the Landuma, but was used among the northern Baga and the neighbouring Nalu as well.

Comparing literature

Lamp, Frederick, Art of the Baga, New York 1996, p. 138 ff