|
|
|
|
Senufo, "Waniugo" Mask
Tribe: Senufo (Siena)
Region: Northern part of the Ivory Coast and southern Mali
Size: 13"
Weight: 2lbs
Material: wood, paints
The mask is known as the "waniugo" mask. The combination of animal features
symbolizes the chaos in the universe and as such, the mask was used by
a group of dancers to represent some mystical monsters. The Senufo people have
a strong masquerading tradition associated with various male societies
like, for example, the "Korubla" society, which through the cult
of ancestors maintains religious traditions and rites.
Making half-human and half-animal masks is very popular among the Senufo people.
The idea is to combine all the best qualities of both species into one
symbolic mask. This elaborately carved dance mask is a fine example of
this idea. The head combines features of a man: the mouth, nose and eyes
(to see and smell danger) with some animal features. The jaw of a crocodile
symbolizes justice and power, the horns of an antelope stand here for speed and
grace and tusks and ears of a warthog represent the alertness of the wearer.
The mask is surmounted by the figure of a chameleon, which, according
to the beliefs of the Senufo people, represents one of the five animals present
at the creation of the world, hence its great importance.
View Larger Image
|
|
