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Face Mask

early 1900s

attributed to Sabariko Koné

(Senufo, d. c. 1950)
Africa, West Africa, Côte d'Ivoire
Wood, upholstery studs, resin, and paint
Overall: 31.6 x 16.7 x 11.4 cm (12 7/16 x 6 9/16 x 4 1/2 in.)
John L. Severance Fund 1989.48
Location: not on view
This artwork is known to be under copyright.

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Description

Face masks like this example are most typically worn during initiation and funerary rituals of a poro association, an age-based organization with religious and sociopolitical responsibilities. Though only worn by men, the masks have facial characteristics that are essentially female, and their imagery is closely related to ideas of sexuality and fertility. The scarification mark on this mask’s forehead is an oblique symbol of a woman’s genitalia, while its lustrous black surface imitates a woman’s oiled, smooth skin—a sign of ideal feminine beauty.
Face Mask

Face Mask

early 1900s

Sabariko Koné

(Senufo, d. c. 1950)
Africa, West Africa, Côte d'Ivoire

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