Mask Item Number: K2.417 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Wood mask with a brass sheet metal covering that has a pattern of repousse dots partly covering the mask. Incised lines on the wood forehead in a wide, horizontal zig zag band. 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. Flat, horizontal, rectangular protrusion on top of the head that has an incised upward pointing triangle in the middle.
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
- fair
- Accession Number
- 0160/0124