Mask, Senufo; Ivory Coast
Wood; H. 13 1/8"
Masks such as this example were used
in funerary contexts within the Poro society
among the Senufo. Referred to as Kpellie
or Kpeliyehe, masks of this type are danced
during the Poyoro masquerade and represent
beautiful women. Originally, this mask would have
been part of a larger costume, with a hooded cloth
cape and a red skirt made of raffia. The dancers,
imitating women's delicate and graceful gestures,
would dance with iron staves topped by three small
bells. Though certain uniformity exists within this
masking tradition, there are subtle and often graceful
variations that can accent the basic structure.
This example has down-turned horns and simplified,
heavy volumes on its side panels. Crowned by a narrow
crest, this mask harmoniously integrates the usual
shapes of the standard form into a seemingly simple
combination that is deceivingly complex in its balance.
