Monkey mask ·  Burkina Faso, Nuna · ID: 3032789

Description

wood, greyish brown patina, encrusted with clay, striking big mouth with small remains of two rows of teeth, linear scarification marks, dam., traces of old age and weathering, insect caused damage, on metal base;
monkey masks are often the lead masks in Nuna dance groups. As lead masks, the responsibility for conducting blood sacrifices may fall to them. The emphasis on the mouth and teeth yields a ferocity, which is further enhanced by its attribute, a bludgeon, with which some sacrifices are said to be executed.

Comparing literature

Roy, Christopher D., Land of the flying masks, München 2007, ill. 49