SENUFO MASKS
Senufo Helmet Mask
Collected in 1959, found in Boundiali district, near Korhogo, Ivory Coast
Referred to a Kponyungo (deadhead) mask by Anita Glaze, this mask is used by the Poro (men’s secret society) society as initiation and teaching of young men. It is used to uphold law and order in the community. The mask is also used to honor the deceased Poro elders and used to protect against malicious spirits and witchcraft. The look of the mask is to conjure fear as the look represents a composite animal. The tusks (warthog), horns (antelope) and jaws (hyena) all represent the power to combat threats. A hornbill bird and chameleon can also appear on some art pieces. The bird is a representation of agricultural productivity, while the chameleon is linked to the ability to change, giving a symbol for diviners and healers. This mask is called the "firespitter" mask by outsiders, as per tradition, these masks are usually worn at night. Tinder is held between a cleft stick in front of the mouth and fire is used to emit from it. According to Anita Glaze, the three highest ranking masquerades employ helmet masks. While Kponyungo can be a generic name for a helmet mask, in the Poro society it refers to the most senior member.
Collected in 1959, found in Boundiali district, near Korhogo, Ivory Coast
Referred to a Kponyungo (deadhead) mask by Anita Glaze, this mask is used by the Poro (men’s secret society) society as initiation and teaching of young men. It is used to uphold law and order in the community. The mask is also used to honor the deceased Poro elders and used to protect against malicious spirits and witchcraft. The look of the mask is to conjure fear as the look represents a composite animal. The tusks (warthog), horns (antelope) and jaws (hyena) all represent the power to combat threats. A hornbill bird and chameleon can also appear on some art pieces. The bird is a representation of agricultural productivity, while the chameleon is linked to the ability to change, giving a symbol for diviners and healers. This mask is called the "firespitter" mask by outsiders, as per tradition, these masks are usually worn at night. Tinder is held between a cleft stick in front of the mouth and fire is used to emit from it. According to Anita Glaze, the three highest ranking masquerades employ helmet masks. While Kponyungo can be a generic name for a helmet mask, in the Poro society it refers to the most senior member.
Senufo Face Mask
Also referred to as Kpelie, this mask is used by the Poro society as initiation rituals for boys, at funerals to lead the spirit of the deceased, and at harvest festivals. It is always owned and worn by men. It represents the society ancestors and has features that symbolize feminine beauty and fertility, as a contrast to the aggressive looking helmet mask. The face mask is usually attached to a costume that covers the entire body. The mask combines animal and human features. Each mask can vary since it represents an ancestor related to the society’s origins.
Also referred to as Kpelie, this mask is used by the Poro society as initiation rituals for boys, at funerals to lead the spirit of the deceased, and at harvest festivals. It is always owned and worn by men. It represents the society ancestors and has features that symbolize feminine beauty and fertility, as a contrast to the aggressive looking helmet mask. The face mask is usually attached to a costume that covers the entire body. The mask combines animal and human features. Each mask can vary since it represents an ancestor related to the society’s origins.