West Africa, Burkina Faso, Mossi / Winiama / Bwa Peoples 20th c. Mask used ceremonially during funerary achievements and transitions to adulthood. Carved wood mask with a hallowed interior and punctures sides for the mounting of a mane during use, the mask itself carved from a single section of wood with a pierced mouth and with geometric and painted decoration to the exterior. In Bwa mythology, the hyena is associated with both positive and negative qualities. It represents the dual nature of life, with both light and dark aspects. The hyena's role as a scavenger also aligns with its symbolic connection to death and the afterlife. Size 12 1/2" H x 7" W, 15 3/4" H on included custom stand

ex-private California Collection, ex-Hurst Gallery, Cambridge Mass.

Mask has stable split to rear left ear to jaw, loss to both ears, small loss to lower jaw and snout. Minor loss to pigment and wear to interior commensurate with age and use.