Mask c. 20th century

sculpture, wood

africain-art

sculpture

figuration

form

sculpture

wood

indigenous-americas

This wooden mask, titled "Mask," was created by the Senufo people of Côte d'Ivoire in the 20th century. The mask is characterized by its large, expressive eyes, a powerful, toothy mouth, and imposing horns. It is believed to have been used in ceremonies and dances, serving as a representation of a powerful spirit or deity. The Senufo are known for their intricate wood carvings, which are often used in traditional rituals and ceremonies. The mask is currently on display at the Minneapolis Institute of Art.

Comments

minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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This mask is a “firespitter.” The wearer places dried grasses and glowing chips of wood in the mouth and blows on them, usually in nighttime performances when the effect is most dramatic. Get closer to the mask and you’ll see an assortment of devouring jaws, dagger-like tusks, and multiple horns. The mask is meant to evoke the terror of sorcery while also conveying the kind of supernatural warfare it takes to protect the community from ill-intentioned people.