Mask "kpélié" ·  Côte d'Ivoire, Sénoufo · ID: 3041033

Description

wood, blackish brown patina, of typical form with ornamental projections, slightly dam. (plug-like projections at the chin, rim), rep. (left horn broken), abrasion of paint, metal base;
among the Senufo, mask characters are in close relationship with “poro” initiation society and funeral celebration. “Kpélié” is carved by “kulebele” sculptors. Its purpose at funeral rituals is to lead the spirits of the deceased members of the family into the peaceful land of the dead, and at harvest festivals, to thank the ancestors and the land spirits for good crops.