Mask Item Number: K2.434 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Wood mask with brass metal sheeting that has a pattern of repousse dots. Incised lines on the wood forehead. Has horizontal, rectangular cut out eyes and a small mouth. Dangling from the forehead, there are three equally spaced long metal decorations, each with a red tassel. Surmounted by a staff topped by a small female head.
History Of Use
Mask used in the dyoboli dance, performed by the Bamana, Bozo, and Marka. The dance portrays dyoboli, the character of a beautiful woman, who is always late and is perceived as undependable. The masked dance is arguably used to teach young men that appearances can be deceiving, or to teach women that submitting to societal values and authority is a virtue.
Item History
- Made in Segou, Mali
- Owned by Walter C. Koerner before 1972
- Received from Walter C. Koerner (Donor) during 1972
What
Who
- Culture
- Marka
- Previous Owner
- Walter C. Koerner
- Received from
- Walter C. Koerner (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Segou, Mali
When
- Ownership Date
- before 1972
- Acquisition Date
- during 1972
Other
- Item Classes
- metalwork
- Condition
- good
- Accession Number
- 0160/0089