Zoomorphic plank mask "nwantantay" ·  Burkina Faso, Bwa · ID: 3034247

Description

wood, slightly encrusted patina, polychrome paint, sacrificial traces, circular facial plane with concentrical eyes and hook-shaped protruding, surmounted by a rectangular board-shaped superstructure crowned by a sickle-shaped element, rep. (nose), min. dam., cracks, slight traces of abrasion, metal socle;
plank masks are the major artistic expression of the southern Bwa. They are signbords or tablets on which the graphic patterns communicate the ethical and moral values of the community. These are religious laws that the people of the community must observe if they are to receive the blessings of God. The black and white checkerboard at the back of this mask represents the value of lifelong learning.

Comparing literature

Roy, Christopher D., Land of the flying masks, München 2007, ill. 140