We are not exactly sure as to the origins of this mask but believe it to be Bobo or Gurunsi of Burkina Faso. The mask features a zoomorphic creature with geometric patterns made from earthy toned pigments. It measures 8 inches tall, 18 inches including stand, and weighs 4.5 pounds. There is a repair to the crest between the eyes and some cracking, scuffing and general wear and tear throughout.
Gurunsi or Bobo Mask 18″ on Stand – Burkina Faso – African Art
$220.00
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| Type of Object | Mask |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Burkina Faso |
| Ethnicity | Gurunsi, Bobo |
| Material | Wood, Pigment |
| Approximate Age | Unknown |
| Height (Inches) | 8" mask | 18" including stand |
| Width (Inches) | 7" |
| Depth (Inches) | 17.5" |
| Weight (Pounds) | 4.5 lbs mask | 6.5 lbs including stand |
| Overall Condition | Repair to crest. Cracking, scuffing and wear and tear |
Tribe Information
About the Bobo People
“The various tribes living in Burkina Faso (formerly Upper-Volta), Ghana and Togo cultivate millet and cotton, and rear cattle in the northern savannah regions. Their religious activities are dictated by the rhythm of the seasons – during the dry season in particular, when the fields are fallow, large festivals and ceremonies are organized.
The 100,000 Bobo live in eastern Burkina Faso. They are primarily farmers whose lives are regulated by a council of elders. The Bobo cast bronze pendants and carved large masks. The masks symbolize animals or spirits and are worn during ceremonies associated with new crops, initiations and funerals.”
Source:
Baquart, Jean-Baptiste. The Tribal Arts of Africa. New York: Thames and Hudson Inc. 1998. Print.
About the Gurunsi People
“A number of tribes who speak dialects of the Gur language have been grouped together under the name Gurunsi. They number 200,000 and spend the dry season hunting and fishing. Gurunsi masks represent bush spirits and are characterized by eyes set within concentric circles. They are worn by dancers during funerals, initiation ceremonies, fertility rites and market-day festivities.
Gurunsi figures are less well known in the West, but have a role in divination rituals.
Gurunsi people wear ivory and bronze bracelets and like other tribes in the region, carve wooden flutes.”
Source:
Baquart, Jean-Baptiste. The Tribal Arts of Africa. New York: Thames and Hudson Inc. 1998. Print.