Mask Item Number: 1373/5 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Dark brown humanoid wooden mask. The face is covered in gold-coloured metal. Mask has a strong brow ridge, large slits for eyes, a straight protruding nose, pursed protruding lips, and a pointed chin. A short, cylindrical hat is crowned with two antennae-like vertical protrusions.
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. Her character flaws are symbolized with the addition of antelope horns. 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 Helen Purkis before May 30, 1989
- Received from Helen Purkis (Donor) on May 30, 1989
What
Who
- Culture
- Bamana
- Previous Owner
- Helen Purkis
- Received from
- Helen Purkis (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Segou, Mali
When
- Ownership Date
- before May 30, 1989
- Acquisition Date
- on May 30, 1989
Other
- Condition
- poor
- Accession Number
- 1373/0005