Rare mask

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Description

wood, remains of fabric, an elaborated decoration of brass sheets attached with numerous brass tags, min. dam., missing parts through insect caused damage, slight traces of corrosion, base.
The Bozo live in Southern Mali, along the river banks of Niger and Bani, mainly from fishing. Although they live in the same area as the Bamana they are not related to them linguistically. Certain cultural institutions, including youth organizations sponsor puppet theater, however, are shared. Like the Bamana, they belong to the Mande speaking group. Their masks resemble those of the Bamana, but show influences of their neighbours to the Southwest, the Bobo and Dogon, as well.

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Comparing literature

Leuzinger, Elsy, Die Kunst von Schwarz-Afrika, Recklinghausen 1972, p. 51, ill. B 17 Christie's, New York, 5 May 1994, lot 48 (comparable object)

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