Wonderful Bwa Hawk mask from the Bwa tribe of Burkina Faso.

These wide headdresses transformed the dancer into a supernatural being. They were used by the Do society at dances to promote fertility of the fields and at funerals of Do members. The geometric designs all have meanings. The checkerboard pattern symbolizes the separation of light from dark, good from evil, and female from male.

Animal masks were used by the Bwa and Bobo in Do worship. The animals represent nature gods who can communicate with humans through the masks. The purpose of this was to encourage the deity Do to bring rain and fertility. In addition, the masks were also worn during funeral and initiation ceremonies. Nowadays, mask dances are performed exclusively for entertainment.

Good condition with a wonderful aged patina.

For shipping outside EU-zone: Please contact first before order, higher shipping cost may apply due to the size of this item.






Object:

Animal mask



Ethnic group:

Bwa



Country:

Burkina Faso



Material:

Wood



Estimated period:

Mid 20th century



Sold with stand:

No



Dimensions:

106x30x15 cm



Weight:

3200 gram



Condition:

Good condition, used with some signs of wear

Reserve: $450.00

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $150.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

International: Foreign shipping rates are determined by destination. International shipping may be subject to VAT.

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Location: This item ships from The Netherlands .

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In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Jasper52 specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Jasper52 within 5 days of receiving the item.