Bird mask
Malinke or Bamana numu (blacksmith)
Masks are performed by Bamana men as part of initiations into age-grade societies, as well as during annual agricultural rituals. The diverse cast of animal masks at these events evoked different qualities from the natural world. In this example, the bird had specific significance to the village and the generation for which it was created. Although the metaphors associated with this mask were not recorded at the time of its collection, its performance likely encouraged collective reflection on social values and the pursuit of mystical knowledge.
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