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

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

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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