Mask: Bush Pig

19th–20th century
Not on view
The imagery found in masks of the Bobo, Bwa, Kurumba, Mossi, and others living in Burkina Faso commonly combine the stylized features of humans, animals, and even insects. Bold geometric shapes repeated in brightly painted designs enliven the surfaces of these relatively abstract forms. When used in performances the masks embody nature or ancestor spirits that interact with human beings and influence their lives. They appear at important funerals to honor the dead and escort the deceased's soul to the world beyond. They also dance at agricultural festivities to ensure the proper progression of the seasons, and at initiation rituals to help introduce young men and women to the secrets and responsibilities of adulthood.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Mask: Bush Pig
  • Date: 19th–20th century
  • Geography: Burkina Faso, Black Volta River region
  • Culture: Bwa or Nuna (?)
  • Medium: Wood, pigment, twine
  • Dimensions: H. 14 1/8 x W. 7 1/2 x D. 9 1/4 in. (35.9 x 19.1 x 23.5 cm)
  • Classification: Wood-Sculpture
  • Credit Line: The Michael C. Rockefeller Memorial Collection, Purchase, Nelson A. Rockefeller Gift, 1960
  • Object Number: 1978.412.397
  • Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

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