Masque facial anthropomorphe "tankagle"

Description

wood, shiny blackish brown patina, encrusted in the forehead zone, remains of kaolin around the eyes, wig from plaited plant fibre strings, “triangular” mouth, pointed chin, ears with drilled holes for attachment of ornament, slightly dam. (right ear, nose), abrasion of paint, base;
“tankagle” means as much as “pantomimic dancing mask figure”. Such masks used to entertain the audience with varied dances, sometimes with playing little scenes or by singing. The rich patina results from immersing the mask in a special liquid of leaves soaked in water and soot. When the mask is dry, it is rubbed until the surface becomes completely black and shiny.

Publications

AHDRC: 0141964