Buffalo Headdress Item Number: 3294/2 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Wooden bovine headdress (or mask). The animal has two large, slightly curved horns extending up and over its head. There are two small ears on either side, next to the eyes which are carved in low relief. The snout is long, with nostrils flared at the end, and teeth bared. The teeth, eyes and nostrils show remnants of white paint.
History Of Use
Also sometimes referred to as a bush cow or buffalo mask.
Narrative
Purchased by Heinzelmann's wife in 1993, in Germany, from the auction house 'Ketterer Kunst Munchen'.
Iconographic Meaning
The buffalo symbolizes power, strength and ferocity and is evocative of royal patronage. Four or five buffalo masks, often worn by royal retainers as signs of loyalty, always accompany masqueraders at death and harvest ceremonies, and during state processions. Blue trade beads in particular are also associated with royalty.
Item History
- Made in Cameroon
- Owned by Frank Heinzelmann before March 27, 2018
- Received from Frank Heinzelmann (Donor) on March 27, 2018
What
Who
- Culture
- Bamileke
- Previous Owner
- Frank Heinzelmann
- Received from
- Frank Heinzelmann (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Cameroon
When
- Ownership Date
- before March 27, 2018
- Acquisition Date
- on March 27, 2018
Other
- Condition
- fair
- Accession Number
- 3294/0002