Masque "ntomo" avec figure féminine stylisée ·  Mali, Bamana · ID: 3051776

Description

wood, old collection label “144”, rest.

The apprenticeship period of the “ntomo” comprises five years. During this time, uncircumcised boys are to be prepared for adulthood, taught rules of conduct, discipline and agricultural skills.

The “ntomo” mask appears to announce the start of a ritual or a puppet masquerade. It often appears in the dry season when the novices wander around the surrounding villages begging for alms and food.