Zoomorphic mask (hornbill) ·  Burkina Faso, Gurunsi · ID: 3040179

Description

wood, encrusted dark patina, sacrificial traces (feathers etc.), min. dam., small missing parts through insect caused damage, fine cracks, traces of abrasion, base;
masks that are used every year in public performances are repainted annually. Only the oldest masks, that never appear in public but are hidden away in the houses of people, acquire this dark patina. This is an example for a very old mask that was retired from performing and became to an altar or shrine object on which sacrifices were offered to the spirits.

Littérature comparée

Roy, Christopher D., Land of the flying masks, München 2007, ill. 69