325 - HEAUME BOLO MASK - Burkina Faso - Bobo

HEAUME BOLO MASK - Burkina Faso - Bobo First half of the 20th century. Wood, metal (?). Dimensions: 124 cm. Bolo masks are primarily used in dances performed during funerals, male initiation rites, and harvest festivals. These masks were crafted and worn by blacksmiths. Combining both animal and human features, this mask—always worn by a male dancer—reflects the cultural significance of women within society. The presence of the female figure at the top of the mask highlights this aspect. A distinctive feature of this mask is that it has multiple small holes instead of two eye openings. The forehead is domed, the ears are semicircular, the nose is long and slender, and the mouth is protruding. Research and documentation: Coryse Mwape, art historian specializing in ancient African art. Base not included. Internal ref.: 697