Bird Mask Item Number: 3420/39 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Mask with a bird head and vertical rectangular superstructure. The bird has two large concentric circle eyes, a raised red ridge, and a long curved beak. Both the head and the beak are painted with black and white repeating triangle designs in various sizes. Long brown plant fibre hair is attached across the back of the face mask, and hangs down. The superstructure consists of two rectangular panels, attached with some openwork. The panels are surmounted by a large crescent with smaller diamond.
History Of Use
The Nunuma, Lèle, Waniama and Nuna, who are referred to collectively by the Mossi as Gurunsi, have exerted a strong influence on Mossi and Bwa mask styles. Gurunsi masks, representing powerful bush spirits who safeguard families, clans and communities, are individually owned and on death pass to eldest sons or are retired to spirit houses. The masks were used in initiations, funerals and, more recently, popular entertainment.
Item History
- Made in Burkina Faso
- Owned by Richard Tchuemegne before February 5, 2020
- Received from Richard Tchuemegne (Seller), Michael O'Brian Family Foundation (Funding source) and Museum of Anthropology Exhibitions Budget (Funding source) on February 5, 2020
What
- Name
- Bird Mask
- Identification Number
- 3420/39
- Type of Item
- mask
- Material
- wood, paint and plant fibre
- Overall
- height 175.2 cm, width 24.7 cm, depth 20.1 cm
Who
- Culture
- Mossi
- Previous Owner
- Richard Tchuemegne
- Received from
- Richard Tchuemegne (Seller), Michael O'Brian Family Foundation (Funding source) and Museum of Anthropology Exhibitions Budget (Funding source)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Burkina Faso
When
- Ownership Date
- before February 5, 2020
- Acquisition Date
- on February 5, 2020
Other
- Condition
- good
- Accession Number
- 3420/0039