Artwork Page for Helmet Mask

Details / Information for Helmet Mask

Helmet Mask

mid- to late 1800s

Africa, West Africa, Mali, Malinke-style blacksmith-carver

Medium
Wood and probably resin
Measurements
Overall: 47 cm (18 1/2 in.)
Credit Line
Andrew R. and Martha Holden Jennings Fund 2004.84
Public Domain
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Location
108A African
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Did You Know?

Holes along the top ridge of this mask once held a crest made of cane, red fibers, and cowrie shells.

Description

Combining animal and human traits, this example of a genre of mask called suruku, meaning “hyena,” most likely belonged to the Korè, one of six power associations that the Malinke would have adopted from their Bamana neighbors. The Korè is concerned with the circumcision and initiation of male youths into adulthood. The mask probably served as one of the symbols of the different Korè classes.
A dark brown, wood helmet mask depicts an animal-like head with a square muzzle, carved as if mouth open. Pointed ears flank and run roughly parallel to pointed horn-like protrusions at the top of the head. A fin-like protrusion runs down the center of the head, curving down into a human-like nose which is flanked by two protruding cylinders. Sets of fine lines create zig-zags up the ears, which also feature three holes each.

Helmet Mask

mid- to late 1800s

Africa, West Africa, Mali, Malinke-style blacksmith-carver

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