Bird/Zoomorphic Bush Spirit Mask with Beak Crest

Origin: Bobo Tribe, Burkina Faso
Composition: wood, pigment dye, paint

This outstanding mask appears to have elements of a bird spirit, often a symbol of freedom and power throughout West African cultures, having the ability to fly and see over the village with an unlimited range. Many Mossi and Bobo tribe masks incorporate elements of birds and such masks may represent proverbs and be used as teaching tools, as well as used the honor nature spirits. The mask could represent a deity or bush spirit, merging human and animal form to create a strong power and presence, with a bit of subdued burgundy and blue colors which adds to the incredible design of the mask.

The 3.5 million Mossi people are the largest tribe in Burkina Faso, who make “both political art and spiritual art. Figures are used by the ruling class to validate political power, and masks are used by the conquered peoples to control the forces of nature. Each year at the annual celebrations of the royal ancestors, figures of the deceased kings are displayed. On many occasions each year, especially during the long dry season from October to May, masks appear to honor the spirits of nature that control the forces of the environment The several mask styles reflect the diversity of the population before the 15th century invasion. Long tall masks in the north are made by the descendants of the conquered Dogon population, while red, white, and black animal masks in the southwest are made by descendants of the conquered Gurunsi peoples.” (C. Roy, University of Iowa).

Est. mid-late 20th century. Excellent collector’s piece.